Yap: Beware of Divisive Narratives on Sarawak’s Gas Policy

suppadmin | September 3, 2025

Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap has cautioned Sarawakians against falling for divisive narratives aimed at undermining the state’s oil and gas policies, stressing that the policies are rooted in fairness, constitutional rights and the people’s interest.

Responding to an article titled “The Chinese Fuzhou hidden hands behind Sarawak’s gas aggregator ambition EXPOSED,” published on Sept 1, Yap said the piece was “riddled with ulterior motives” and sought to distort facts and create distrust.

He said the article falsely portrayed key leaders, including former State Attorney-General JC Fong, Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hassan and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, as well as Shell Malaysia Chairman Siti Sulaiman, as part of a “hidden hand” controlling Sarawak’s policies.

“This is false and irresponsible. Sarawak’s policies on oil and gas are not shaped by racial groups or personal agendas. They are decisions of the State Government, guided by MA63, the Federal Constitution and endorsed through the State Legislative Assembly,” Yap said.

He explained that state laws such as the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 and the Oil Mining Ordinance 1958 were legitimate legal frameworks passed by elected representatives to reclaim Sarawak’s authority over its natural resources. “Suggesting otherwise is an insult to our democratic process,” he added.

Yap also dismissed claims that Petros would cripple Petronas, describing such allegations as fearmongering. “Petros complements Petronas by ensuring Sarawak gains fair value for its resources. Both entities are partners, not adversaries,” he said.

He further rejected suggestions of political rivalry between Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Deputy Premier Awang Tengah, calling it a baseless attempt to fracture Sarawak’s leadership.

On the issue of revenue, Yap clarified that Dr Sim Kui Hian’s mention of RM10 billion in potential annual earnings was a projection of Sarawak’s economic potential, not greed. “The revenue will be reinvested into schools, hospitals, digital development and rural infrastructure for the benefit of all Sarawakians,” he said.

He also defended other leaders named in the article, including Ibrahim Baki, stressing that public officials are bound by fiduciary duty, Malaysian laws and anti-corruption measures.

Yap added that efforts to cast suspicion on Shell and Siti Sulaiman were further attempts to confuse the public, when in reality Sarawak continues to welcome industry players to build a transparent and competitive energy sector.

“This article is not an honest analysis but a deliberate attempt to mislead and divide Sarawakians. We must stay united and focus on the truth — our oil and gas policy is about reclaiming constitutional rights, ensuring fair benefits, and building a stronger future under the Post-Covid Development Strategy 2030,” he said.

Yap urged Sarawakians to reject divisive rhetoric, adding: “Our strength lies in unity, and our fight for fairness is just.”