Rafizi: CCUS framework development bound by AGC’S advice on boundaries interpretation

KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 7): The Ministry of Economy, in developing the carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) framework for Malaysia, will be guided and bound by the Attorney General Chamber’s (AGC) advice, said its Minister Rafizi Ramli today.

He said the framework would include issues related to the interpretation of boundaries between Federal and state that has been outlined in the Continental Shelf Act (1966), Exclusive Economic Zone Act (1984) and Territorial Sea Act (2012).

While the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) platform’s discussion on the different interpretation of boundaries between the Federal government and the Sarawak state government is ongoing, Rafizi said the Ministry of Economy will keep abreast of its progress to ensure the CCUS legislation reflects the understanding reached.

“The MA63 platform has made significant progress so far to find resolutions for outstanding issues between the Federal Government, Sabah and Sarawak,” said Rafizi in a statement today.

He said during the National Energy Council meeting on Aug 2, 2024, the Federal government took note of issues raised by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg pertaining to the difference in interpretation of state boundaries between Sarawak and the Federal government.

This was in relation to the proposed legislative framework for the CCUS industry in Malaysia.

“It was also emphasised that any business in the state, especially those involving trade, must respect any rulings and rights of Sarawak state,” said Rafizi. – Bernama