We see how it goes, says CM on possibility of cheaper Petros LPG for Sarawakians

KUCHING: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg did not dismiss the possibility of the state’s own liquefied petroleum gas ( LPG) cylinders being offered at a lower price to Sarawakians in the future.

“Over time, if it is more efficient in terms of transportation, I think we can reduce the price corresponding to the cost of retailing. At the moment it will be sold at the same price ( as other brands) which is RM26.60 per cylinder.

“We see how it goes. Today (yesterday) we just launched it, tunggu dulu (wait first),” he told reporters a er launching the Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) LPG at Kubah Ria here yesterday.

The chief minister was asked if the Petros LPG cylinders would be sold cheaper to Sarawakians in view that they are produced in Sarawak.

He explained the price current price was fixed at RM26.60 per 14kg cylinder for households due to it being a controlled item under the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs

He said the cost per cylinder was actually more than RM50 per cylinder, with about 50 per cent of the cost absorbed by the government.

Meanwhile, Utilities Minister Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi said the launch of Petros LPG delivers the intent of the state’s Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016, to ensure adequate, reliable, quality, efficient, affordable and safe gas supply for domestic consumers in Sarawak.

He said his ministry will facilitate Petros’ role as domestic gas aggregator and implementor of the Sarawak Gas Masterplan, both of which require a multisectoral regulatory framework to realise.

“One of the main objectives of my ministry is to ensure that subsidised LPG truly benefits the right gas consumers, especially for rural households where distribution costs have escalated LPG cylinder prices and created a disproportionate urban-rural pricing gap.

“Untargeted use of LPG subsidies and the urban-rural pricing gap for household LPG are two areas where my ministry will strengthen efforts towards with enforcement and stakeholder engagement,” said Dr Rundi.