KUCHING: Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang has expressed concern over Sarawakian opposition leader Chong Chieng Jen’s decision to attack the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government instead of standing in solidarity with the state’s push for greater control over its resources.
He stressed that as Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and GPS work to secure Sarawak’s rights, Chong’s criticism risks undermining the state’s bargaining position.
“If, as Chong suggests, Sarawak’s resources are at risk — if Putrajaya continues to resist Sarawak’s push for greater control — then where does he and DAP Sarawak truly stand?” Lo asked.
He pointed out that Chong, as an MP and a senior member of Anwar Ibrahim’s Pakatan Harapan-led Unity Government, has direct access to key decision-makers in Putrajaya. Instead of leveraging this position to advocate for Sarawak, Lo said Chong seems more focused on criticising Abang Johari and GPS.
“By taking this approach, Chong risks weakening Sarawak’s bargaining power. If he is truly committed to defending Sarawak’s interests, why not leverage his federal influence to advance Sarawak’s case,” he said.
Lo also reaffirmed Sarawak’s stance on its oil and gas resources, emphasising that the state government has never sought to disrupt existing contracts with PETRONAS or international investors. He noted that under the Sarawak Sales Tax Ordinance and the Oil Mining Ordinance 1958 (OMO58), PETRONAS is required to remit a five percent sales tax on petroleum products to Sarawak, a position affirmed by the Federal Court in 2020.
“Sarawak understands the need for PDA 74 to coexist with OMO 58 for now in order not to disrupt existing contracts. However, Sarawak’s right to impose fiscal measures on its resources remains intact,” he stated.
He further dismissed claims that GPS leaders were responsible for the Petroleum Development Act (PDA) 1974, stating that many of them were either very young or not yet in politics when the law was passed.
“History cannot be changed — but the future can be fought for, and that is exactly what the present leadership in GPS is doing today,” he stressed.
Calling for unity, Lo urged all Sarawakian leaders, regardless of political affiliation, to work together to protect the state’s interests.
“This is bigger than political rivalry — this is about Sarawak’s future. Do the right thing — stand with GPS. Stand for Sarawak,” he said.
