KUCHING, Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros), as the sole gas aggregator in Sarawak, must ensure that gas allocation for export and local value-add is determined strategically and fairly. Sarawak Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said Petros also plays a crucial role in attracting investors, fostering greater local participation and contributing to the economic growth of Sarawak. 'Petros collaboration with Petroliam Nasional Bhd ensures a smooth transition of responsibilities in procuring natural gas from upstream producers and supplying it to industries in Sarawak, including the liquefied natural gas plants in Bintulu,' he said during the 'Empowering the Gas Industry: Gas Distribution Licence Handover Ceremony' here today. Julaihi said the continued growth of Sarawak's economy requires the availability of natural gas as fuel for power generation, commercial industries and industrial feedstock. 'To deliver on Sarawak Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030) and ensure long -term gas supply security, it is envisaged that 30 per cent of the gas should be allocated for domestic needs by 2030,' he said. During the event, the gas distribution division under the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak issued gas retail licences to thirteen upstream gas sellers who applied to carry out natural gas supply and sales activities in Sarawak. According to Julaihi, 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 (GPA) with Petros no later than Oct 1, 2024. 'Failure to meet the timeline will be deemed as non-compliance with the Distribution of Gas Ordinance, 2016 (DGO 2016) and is an offence under Section 20. 'This GPA will enable upstream gas players to legally sell and supply gas within Sarawak, ensuring consumers have access to reliable gas supply,' he added. Source: BERNAMA News Agency