Mahathir Warns Sarawak’s Oil Grab from Petronas Threatens Malaysia’s Economy

Former Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir Mohamad warned that Sarawak’s push to control its oil and gas resources from Petronas could harm Malaysia’s economy. Sarawak, holding 60.87% of Malaysia’s petroleum reserves, challenges the 1974 Petroleum Development Act, asserting authority via the 1958 Oil Mining Ordinance. Mahathir emphasized that national interests should prioritize within the federation, noting Sarawak’s economic gains from Malaysia. He stressed the need for strong governance, as shown by Petronas, and criticized Sarawak’s political pressure on Putrajaya, urging parliamentary discussion to resolve the dispute.

Key Quotes on Oil Grab

• “The nation will lose by the arrangements being negotiated between the federal government and the state government,” said Mahathir.
• “When Sarawak was under British rule, did they build the Twin Towers? They were very poor. The British took all their money.”
• “Sarawak is a part of a federation, where the national policies and its interests must come first.”

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