Sim: It’s about continuous gas supply at reasonable prices

KUCHING: The Sarawak government is committed to advocating for state autonomy in the gas distribution industry.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Prof. Dr. Sim Kui Hian, said the passing of the Distribution of Gas (Amendment) Bill 2023 in November would benefit the people of Sarawak in terms of continuous gas supply at reasonable prices.

“The Bill  was passed so that the state government can enhance the gas distribution network in Sarawak.

“This ensures a more consistent and reliable gas supply, crucial for the smooth operation of businesses and industries. It’s not just about the distribution of subsidised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders from Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) or MyGaz,” he said.

He said this at the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government’s Excellent Service Awards 2022, the 2023 Innovative and Creative Group Award 2023 and the Smart Community Award held here last night (Dec 12).

MyGaz is a subsidiary of Thailand’s Siamgas and Petrochemical Co Ltd, operating in Malaysia.

Starting Dec 1, the distribution rights of LPG were granted to PETROSNiaga Sdn Bhd.

Dr Sim said there is no monopoly in the distribution of LPG by Petros, pointing out that it aligns with the implementation of Sarawak’s rights as outlined in the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 (DGO2016).

He said that Sarawak has the right to use the autonomy ordinance for the distribution of liquid petroleum gas to strengthen control and supervision over the state’s oil and gas resources.

Previously, Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said following the change, starting from Dec 1, the distribution of LPG cylinders will be managed by Petros in collaboration with Petronas.

“It is a collaboration between Petros, a local company, and Petronas, the national oil and gas company. It’s not just Petros. They are also working with Sarawak Energy and other parties, where many other companies are stakeholders in it,” Julaihi was quoted as saying.