Sarawak still pursuing commercial settlement on O&G, says court matter separate issue

Datuk Ibrahim Baki

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, Feb 15: Sarawak is continuing discussions with the federal government on oil and gas (O&G) matters and remains hopeful of reaching a commercial settlement, says Deputy Minister of Utility (Sarawak Energy Berhad and PETROS) Datuk Ibrahim Baki.

He stressed that discussions are ongoing between the federal government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Sarawak government under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

“Oil and gas, we are still discussing. I’m sure there will be some sort of formula.

“We hope to reach a commercial settlement between Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS),” he told reporters when met at Thompson Corner in Satok today.

Ibrahim further said while certain matters are now before the court, negotiations are continuing in parallel.

“The court is another issue. Both sides have their own views. Our view is very clear — we want to maintain our existing laws. We have to respect the law.

“Thus, they are asking for clarity in court. It’s okay, anyone can go to court to seek clarity. At the same time, we also want clarity,” he added.

He also said Sarawak will abide by whatever ruling is delivered should the matter ultimately be decided by the judiciary.

“For us, we have to follow what the court ruling is. We honour whatever is the judgment later by the court.

“But hopefully we don’t come to that stage and we can reach some sort of commercial settlement,” he stated.

Earlier, Ibrahim, who is also the Satok assemblyman, presented Chinese New Year ‘angpows’ to about 40 needy residents in the area.

He said the annual programme has become a tradition, with Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Satok, the Green Road Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK), and neighbourhood associations working together to distribute contributions and visit local residents and businesses.

“This has become our tradition where we visit the community, especially traders and residents around this area.

“Chinese New Year is a time to renew family ties and strengthen our cultural traditions. We want to continue engaging with residents and businesses in Satok,” he said.

Describing this year as the Year of the Horse, Ibrahim expressed hope that the community, particularly the Chinese community, would enjoy a better year ahead. — DayakDaily