JOHOR BAHRU – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has made it clear that all agreements signed between Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) will remain unchanged, including petroleum exports to Japan, South Korea and China.
He stressed that Petronas had pledged to fulfil all of Sarawak’s domestic energy needs, reaffirming a spirit of collaboration between the national oil giant and the state-owned Petros.
“Petronas has also given assurance that all domestic needs of Sarawak will be fully met, in line with the spirit of cooperation between the national oil company and the state-owned oil company of Sarawak,” Anwar said.
“In addition, Petronas has assured that all domestic needs of Sarawak must be fulfilled, and all new initiatives must proceed through negotiations in a spirit of mutual understanding between Petronas and Petros.”
He made the statement during his officiating speech at the PKR National Congress here this evening, addressing growing scepticism over whether the federal government was surrendering powers, and dissatisfaction from Sarawak over unmet demands.
“In this situation, many here are suspicious as if we are surrendering powers, while in Sarawak there are concerns and regrets that the initial demands could not be fully met.”
Anwar said the government’s approach exemplifies a responsible administration that prioritises consultation and consensus in its decision-making.
“This is the meaning of a government that must deliberate, reach consensus and seek clarity among ourselves.”
He also linked the issue to the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), which includes increased allocations for Sabah and Sarawak in line with current needs.
“This includes the MA63 agreement with additional allocations for Sabah and Sarawak, and opposition Members of Parliament who, of course, are unaware of history and do not understand the context of why allocations to Sabah and Sarawak were increased—because of current needs.”
The longstanding dispute between Petronas and Petros was recently resolved with a joint declaration signed last Wednesday by the Federal Government and the Sarawak state government.
Anwar affirmed that Petronas’s role remains secure, while Petros will be recognised in accordance with recent developments and Sarawak’s enhanced authority.
“Petronas’s role is not threatened and Petros will be recognised, taking into account new developments and the powers granted to Sarawak.” — May 23, 2025