{
  "id": 17401915,
  "title": "Sarawak to push for greater control of strategic resources",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/31/sarawak-to-push-for-greater-control-of-strategic-resources",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-31T11:55:45.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Malaysia Today",
    "slug": "free-malaysia-today",
    "url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/10/31/sarawak-to-push-for-greater-control-of-strategic-resources"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Premier Abang Johari Openg of Sarawak has declared that the state will persist in its quest for greater control over its strategic resources, particularly the oil and gas sector. This determination was emphasized by citing examples such as the takeover of Bintulu port and Affin Bank, as reported by the Dayak Daily. Abang Johari asserted that securing these assets necessitates the support of the Sarawakian populace for the state government. The premier urged the people to remain steadfast in their backing for the leadership, quoting an Iban phrase that signifies the commitment to stand firm until the end. Sarawak's resolve to retain its oil and gas rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 is unwavering, as affirmed by the premier. In January, the Sarawak government officially assumed control over Bintulu port, having acquired a 73.33% stake in the Bintulu Port Authority, formerly under federal jurisdiction. Moreover, in 2024, Sarawak made history by becoming the first Malaysian state to own a bank, holding a 31.25% stake in Affin Bank.",
  "summary": "The premier, Abang Johari Openg, says the people's backing would be needed for the state to reclaim such assets.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}