Sarawak Premier Abang Johari says the court will decide on Petronas’ application for clarity on petroleum regulations in the state.
KUCHING: The Sarawak state government will leave it to the court to rule on Petronas’ application regarding the regulatory framework for petroleum operations in the state.
Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the matter involves both the federal and state governments, making it inappropriate to comment at this stage.
“I have no comment. They are seeking direction from the court, so let the court decide,” he told reporters.
He described Petronas’ move as a routine measure to seek legal clarity, aligning 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 added.
In a statement, Petronas said it filed a motion at the Federal Court in Putrajaya seeking clarity on the applicable petroleum regulatory framework governing its operations in Sarawak.
The national oil company named the federal government and the Sarawak state government as respondents in the application.
“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.
Petronas clarified that the application is not intended to challenge Sarawak’s development aspirations or hinder the role of Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros).
The decision to file the motion followed a series of dialogues and negotiations with Petros as well as the federal and state governments since 2024.
