Sarawak Assembly passes Distribution of Gas Bill

KUCHING: The Sarawak State Legislative Assembly unanimously passed the Distribution of Gas (Amendment) Bill, 2023 for a Gas Aggregator to procure adequate gas for distribution and supply for use in the state.

The bill was passed by a majority vote in favour with 16 members of the state assembly participating in the debate session.

Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi (pix) said the bill provides for the appointment of a Gas Aggregator to ensure the availability of gas for industries and consumers, and to strengthen, improve and expand the existing gas distribution network and systems.

“Currently, Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) is already a licensed distributor of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Sarawak and will be appointed as the sole distributor for LPG effective Dec 1, 2023.

“At the same time, the Sarawak government will work with Petros and Petronas to accelerate the exploration and development of new gas fields offshore Sarawak,“ he said when winding up the bill before it was passed at the state assembly here today.

Upon the passage and enforcement of the bill, Julaihi said the principal functions of the Gas Aggregator are to manage the procurement of natural gas from all sources for distribution and supply to any person, plant, facility and premises in Sarawak.

“To develop, expand, manage and maintain gas distribution network and systems including but not limited to pipelines, terminals for receiving gas, processing plants and storage facilities.

“To carry out such other functions related to the distribution of gas in Sarawak as Majlis Mesyuarat Kerajaan Negeri may direct in writing,“ he added.

According to Julaihi, the bill also introduces provisions to remand those who are arrested under the ordinance and seizure of property when the offender cannot be found as well as handling of seized items. -Bernama