KOTA KINABALU: The government of Sarawak is not adopting a confrontational stance in its petition against three federal petroleum laws related to its ongoing dispute with Petronas concerning oil and gas rights, said former chief minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak.
He said what began as regulatory differences has now moved to a more fundamental issue.
Sarawak is challenging the Petroleum Development Act 1974, the Continental Shelf Act 1966 and the Petroleum Mining Act 1966 in court.
He said the matter now concerns the legal foundation of Petronas’ vested rights and the balance of powers between the Federal Government and the states.
“Bringing this issue to court should not be seen as confrontation but as confidence in the rule of law.
“Petronas remains an important national institution, and its contribution to the economy is significant,” he said in his latest Facebook post.
At the same time, Salleh said clarity on state rights will provide certainty for the future.
“Ultimately, the aim is fairness—ensuring that national resources are managed responsibly and in a way that strengthens the Federation and benefits the people,” he added.
