Sarawak not out to topple national entities, says Abang Jo

 

Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg said his administration is only asking for its existing rights to be respected and fulfilled. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: 

Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg has rubbished claims that the state is out to topple national entities, saying his administration is only asking for its existing rights to be respected and fulfilled.

He also expressed hope that Sarawak’s desire to participate in the country’s oil and gas industry would not be politicised, saying Malaysia’s power and resources should be shared 

more fairly and equitably

, the Borneo Post reported.

Sarawak cannot do everything by itself, and the wisest way for Sarawak is through partnership and collaboration with national and international entities to transform the state’s economy,

 he was quoted as saying.

Last month, Abang Johari dismissed claims that the state government had taken Petroliam Nasional Bhd’s (Petronas) rights over oil and gas resources in the state under the Petroleum Development 1974.

However, he also said that Sarawak had power over its resources under the Oil Mining Ordinance 1958, which existed before the formation of Malaysia 1963, Malay Mail Online reported him as saying.

I know that it is a sin to take over the rights of others. But it is also a sin for others to take our rights,

 he was quoted as saying.

Last night, Abang Johari said the decision to repeal the Bintulu Port Act and to hand the port back to the state government after 43 years under the authority of the federal government came at a price.

Sarawak had to compensate the federal government, especially when taking over assets, he said.

Sarawak’s efforts to restore its rights do not mean that Sarawak is not concerned about the interests of the country,

 he said, referring to the Ninth Schedule of the Federal Constitution which empowers the state to regulate its ports. - FMT