Collaborative approach: Anwar (right) discussing the PETRONAS-Petros matter with Abang Johari in Putrajaya. — Photo from Anwar’s Facebook
KUALA LUMPUR: All parties should refrain from making statements about the on-going talks between Petroliam Nasional Bhd (PETRONAS) and Sarawak-owned oil and gas firm Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros), says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister also urged all parties to postpone any actions regarding the issue in the interest of mutual understanding.
Anwar said the Federal Government and the Sarawak government would hold further discussions to finalise the PETRONAS-Petros arrangement when Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg returns from an official visit to London in the United Kingdom.
“I had the opportunity to speak with the Sarawak Premier yesterday regarding the PETRONAS-Petros matter, based on the previously agreed upon principles.
“I strongly believe that this issue can be resolved wisely by staying committed to a path of healthy and meaningful dialogue,” he said in a Facebook post yesterday.
Meanwhile, Sinar Harian reported that in London, Abang Johari confirmed that he had received the call from Anwar on the matter.
He also quipped that the PETRONAS-Petros negotiation was like a “football match”.
“The issue is being resolved based on a win-win approach for both parties,” he said, adding that they are committed to finding a solution.
It was reported that PETRONAS has confirmed that its subsidiary, Petronas Carigali Sdn Bhd (PCSB), had received notices on April 30 from the Sarawak Utility and Telecommunication Ministry concerning gas processing and distribution.
The national oil firm told Bernama that PCSB is statutorily authorised under the Petroleum Development Act 1974 to undertake the company’s activities and comply with all applicable laws in doing so.
The two firms, as well as the federal and state government, have been locked in negotiations over Petros’ role as Sarawak’s gas aggregator.
In another post, Anwar also said that he contacted Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto for a brief discussion on Saturday, during which both leaders agreed on the need to strengthen cooperation between the two neighbours across various sectors.
Anwar said both he and Prabowo believe that a strong Malaysia-Indonesia relationship can bring meaningful results to their people.
“We also discussed preparations for the Asean Summit 2025, which will be held in Kuala Lumpur at the end of this month.”
Prabowo also extended an invitation for Anwar to visit Jakarta again.
