KUCHING, Jan 13 (Bernama) -- The Sarawak state government is leaving it to the court to rule on Petronas’ application regarding the regulatory framework for petroleum operations in the state, said Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the matter involves the federal and state governments, so it is not appropriate to comment at this stage.
“I have no comment. They are seeking direction from the court, so let the court decide,” he told reporters at the 2026 Sarawak Premier’s Address today.
He said Petronas’ move is a routine measure to seek legal clarity, noting that the approach aligns with the country's rule-of-law principle.
“Let’s see what the court decides. We will follow their ruling and abide by the rule of law,” he said.
In a statement yesterday, Petronas said it had filed a motion at the Federal Court in Putrajaya seeking clarity on the applicable petroleum regulatory framework governing its operations in Sarawak, naming the federal government and the Sarawak state government as respondents.
“The application seeks to determine the legal position applicable to Petronas’ operations in the state to ensure the company continues to operate in full compliance with the applicable laws and sound governance practices,” it said.
It said the application is not intended to challenge Sarawak’s development aspirations or hinder the role of Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) in the state’s energy sector, adding that the decision to file the motion follows a series of dialogues and negotiations with Petros as well as the federal and state governments since 2024.
-- BERNAMA
