PUTRAJAYA: The Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS) has been urged to take an active role in countering negative sentiments from those calling for Sarawak to leave Malaysia over the issue of oil and gas control involving Petroliam Nasional Bhd (PETRONAS) and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (PETROS).
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof reaffirmed that Sarawak will remain in Malaysia and urged the public to stop such provocations.
He warned that negative sentiments could erode investor confidence and ultimately harm the government.
“This issue needs to be addressed. UKAS must play its role in informing the public that there is no need for such extreme actions – Sarawak will remain part of Malaysia.
“I also want to see fewer negative voices on this matter, as they could lead investors to lose confidence in us,” he said.
Fadillah said this during a courtesy visit from an UKAS delegation, led by Deputy State Secretary (Operations) Datuk Hii Chang Kee at his office today.
The Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister stressed that both PETRONAS and PETROS have agreed in principle to resolve the matter through a commercial agreement instead of legal action.
He added that relying solely on legal measures would not fully resolve the issue, saying that the cooperation between PETROS and PETRONAS is needed for the greater benefit of the nation.
“The best solution is through a commercial agreement, ensuring a win-win outcome for both the federal and Sarawak governments.
“In principle, this solution has already been agreed upon.
“My suggestion is for PMX, Premier, Attorney-General, State Attorney-General, as well as the CEOs of PETRONAS and PETROS to sit down together and draft an agreement that benefits both sides and strengthens cooperation,” he added.
On the same note, Fadillah requested UKAS’ assistance in conducting research during Parliamentary and Senate sessions, noting that the federal government lacks sufficient information on Sarawak.
