KUCHING: The Gas Distribution Division under the Sarawak Ministry of Utility and Telecommunications has issued gas retail licences to 13 upstream gas companies.

These companies have applied to carry out natural gas supply and sales activities in the state.

Utility and Telecommunications minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, who handed over the licences today, said the application from two other companies are being processed.

"Upon receiving their retail of gas licence, all upstream gas players are reminded to comply with the terms and conditions under their licences and enter into a Gas Purchase Agreement with Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) no later than  Oct 1, 2024," he said.

He warned that the failure in meeting the timeline will be deemed as non-compliance of the Distribution of Gas Ordinance, 2016 and it is an offence under Section 20.

He said the GPA will enable upstream gas players to legally sell and supply gas within Sarawak, ensuring consumers have access to reliable gas supply.

"The issuance of these licences not only ensures compliance with the DGO, but also signifies our dedication to supporting the growth of our local energy industry," he added.

He said under Section 7A of DGO, Petros, being the gas aggregator, is the only party deemed licensed to undertake all activities related to the procurement, supply, distribution and sale of natural gas in Sarawak.

"Any other parties who wish to carry on any of the listed activities under Section 7 of DGO must be licensed," he said.

The 13 upstream gas players receiving their licences are Petroleum Sarawak Exploration & Production (PSEP) Sdn Bhd, PTTEP Sarawak Oil Limited, SAPURAOMV Upstream (Sarawak) Inc, Sarawak Shell Berhad, Petronas Carigali Sdn Bhd, PT Pertamina Malaysia Eksplorasi Produksi, and Diamond Energy Sarawak Sdn Bhd.

The other players are Mubadala Energy Ltd, ROC Oil (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd, JX Nippon Oil & Gas Exploration (Malaysia) Limited, Dialog Resources Sdn Bhd, Vestigo Petroleum Sdn Bhd (VPSB), and E&P Malaysia Venture (EPMV) Sdn Bhd.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/1088151/sarawak-issues-retail-licences-13-upstream-gas-companies