KUCHING: Sarawak’s economic progress is not solely for its own benefit but also contributes positively to Malaysia’s overall growth, said Rodiyah Sapiee.
The Batang Sadong MP highlighted that Sarawak’s vast natural gas reserves present an opportunity to strengthen the local economy through value-added gas industries while supporting the nation’s energy transition.
She noted that the Sarawak Gas Roadmap was introduced to expand gas utilisation, reduce reliance on oil and coal, and ensure a stable supply at a lower cost.
“Furthermore, infrastructure developments such as pipelines, deep-sea ports, and airport hubs will enhance gas exports, boost national revenue, and improve the wellbeing of the people.
“In line with Sarawak’s aspirations to expand its participation in the oil and gas sector, the strategy prioritises the role of PETROS as the state’s sole gas aggregator, ensuring a structured and strategic approach to industry development,” she said during her motion of thanks on the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s royal address at the Dewan Rakyat on Monday.
Meanwhile, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) Senior Lecturer Dr Dzul Hadzwan Husaini echoed these sentiments, expressing strong support for the Sarawak Gas Roadmap as a high-impact strategy to strengthen the state’s gas industry.
He stressed that this initiative is not only vital for Sarawak’s economic growth but also plays a crucial role in ensuring Malaysia’s energy security.
“To fully maximise the benefits, we must upgrade the existing gas ecosystem by developing more sustainable and efficient infrastructure.
“The expansion of a comprehensive gas pipeline network will enhance the industry’s value-added potential and significantly boost economic returns.
“This strategy will benefit producers, consumers, and the national fiscal position by increasing production capacity, allowing Sarawak to meet domestic energy needs while expanding gas exports to international markets,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
Dr Dzul pointed out that developing a robust gas infrastructure through an integrated pipeline network has proven highly effective in developed regions such as Europe.
The European gas pipeline system, he said, has contributed to economic growth and strengthened energy security — a model that Sarawak should adopt to drive macroeconomic stability and improve citizens’ wellbeing.
“To successfully realise this vision, it is crucial that PETROS be granted the role of Sarawak’s sole gas aggregator.
“As a state-owned entity, PETROS has the capacity to manage Sarawak’s gas resources efficiently, reducing bureaucratic delays and streamlining gas supply management,” he said.
This approach, he added, would allow Sarawak to maximise its economic growth potential, strengthen its competitiveness in the energy sector, and ensure greater benefits for the people through socio-economic development in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
“I am confident that with effective implementation, the Sarawak Gas Roadmap will not only strengthen Sarawak’s economy but also contribute significantly to Malaysia’s overall progress.
“A strong commitment from all stakeholders — including the federal and state governments, industry players, and investors — is essential to ensuring the success of this initiative for a more sustainable and resilient energy future,” he said.
