Subsidised LPG supply ensures abundant provision for domestic users

KUCHING: The subsidised supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Sarawak, catering to approximately 700,000 users monthly, guarantees an ample provision for domestic consumers in the state.

Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi pointed out the significance of the two subsidised LPG filling centres in Kuching (IOT Senari) and Bintulu (Terminal LPG Bintulu) in meeting user needs while maintaining surplus gas cylinders as reserves.

During a media briefing, he mentioned that IOT Senari currently produces 16,000 cylinders daily, with the capacity to increase to 22,000 per day, resulting in a monthly production of 480,000 cylinders. 

IOT Senari stands as the largest facility, while Bintulu operates at a similar rate of approximately 1,000 to 1,200 cylinders per hour. In the event of issues at one centre, supplies can be obtained from the other.

Julaihi disclosed that IOT Senari supplies subsidised LPG to the Kuching area up to two-thirds of Sibu, while Terminal LPG Bintulu serves the remaining third, covering Sibu, Bintulu, Miri, Limbang, Kuala Baram, and Ulu Baram.

Emphasising adherence to proper LPG processing capacity procedures, prioritising safety, and complying with a 14-kilogramme weight per gas cylinder during the filling process, he assured the public of stringent quality control measures.

In response to potential price manipulation, a dedicated team has been established to monitor individuals or external syndicates attempting to raise the price of subsidised LPG gas above its original price of RM26.60, addressing related issues promptly.

Expressing confidence in the recent appointment of PETROSNiaga as the sole distributor of subsidised LPG cylinders in Sarawak starting Dec 1, Julaihi dismissed concerns of monopoly issues. 

Instead, he views this initiative as a thoughtful government step to continuously uphold people’s rights through ongoing subsidies for essential goods.