SUPP Stakan backs state’s Federal Court move on Petros framework

KUCHING (March 20): The Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Stakan Branch has voiced strong support for the state government’s decision to file a petition in the Federal Court over the regulatory framework of Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros).

Its chairman Datuk Sim Kiang Chiok said the move reflects overwhelming public sentiment and is a necessary step to defend Sarawak’s constitutional authority.

“This strategic legal move, as announced by Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali, is a necessary and courageous step to ensure that Sarawak’s constitutional authority is defended at the highest level.

“The people of Sarawak are watching this case with great intensity. Our resources and our laws are not mere points of debate; they are the heritage of every Sarawakian,” he said in a statement on Thursday.

Sim said SUPP Stakan stands firmly behind the state government, stressing that Sarawak must utilise every legal and constitutional avenue available to safeguard its rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

He described the challenge mounted by Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) against the legislative competency of the Sarawak State Legislature as a matter of grave concern.

“The laws being challenged, including the Oil Mining Ordinance 1958 and the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016, are the pillars of our economic autonomy.

“By filing a cross-petition, the Sarawak government is ensuring that the Federal Court hears a balanced argument that respects Sarawak’s special status and our right to regulate our own land and resources,” he pointed out.

Sim said SUPP Stakan remains committed to the ‘Sarawak First’ struggle.

He urged the public to stand together as the state navigates what he described as a critical legal battle to protect the interests of current and future generations.

On Wednesday, Sharifah Hasidah said the state government was prepared to file its own petition to ensure all legal issues are thoroughly and fairly examined by the Federal Court.

She added that Sarawak hopes its petition will be heard together with Petronas’ application so that all matters can be considered comprehensively.

federal court framework oil and gas rights Petros Sarawak United People's Party Sim Kiang Chiok