KUALA LUMPUR – The Sarawak government has decided to let the Federal Court rule on Petronas’ application seeking clarity over the regulatory framework for petroleum operations in the state, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said today.
He stressed that the matter involves both federal and state authorities, making it inappropriate to comment further 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.
Abang Johari described Petronas’ move as a routine step to obtain legal certainty, noting that it reflects Malaysia’s commitment to the rule of law.
“Let’s see what the court decides. We will follow their ruling and abide by the rule of law,” he said.
Petronas, in a statement yesterday, confirmed it had filed a motion at the Federal Court in Putrajaya, naming both the federal and Sarawak governments as respondents.
The application seeks to determine the legal position governing its operations in Sarawak to ensure full compliance with laws and sound governance practices.
The national oil company emphasised that the filing is not intended to challenge Sarawak’s development aspirations or undermine the role of Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) in the state’s energy sector.
It said the decision followed a series of dialogues and negotiations with Petros as well as federal and state authorities since 2024. – January 13, 2026