State Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi (second right) opening the seminar on raising awareness for achieving the ISO 29001 certification in Kuching. - ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star
KUCHING: Gas players operating in Sarawak will be required to obtain the ISO 29001 quality management certification to apply for or renew their licences with the state government, says Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi.
The state Utility and Telecommunication Minister said the certificate must be attached as a mandatory document with their respective applications starting 2026.
"We see the need to take into consideration the safety and risk factors as required by the certification.
"This is an international requirement, so we should keep abreast with the latest standards so that we will be globally recognised in the future, especially in terms of our workforce," he told reporters after opening a seminar on achieving the certification here on Monday (Sept 23).
Julaihi said the seminar was timely to raise awareness among gas players on the importance of the certification.
"We are giving them a grace period until 2026. By then they must attach the certificate whenever they submit their applications or renewals to the ministry," he added.
Earlier in his speech, Julaihi said the certification requirement aimed to ensure that gas players operating in Sarawak adhere to high standards of quality and reliability.
He said compliance with international standards was non-negotiable for all industry participants.
"This measure underscores the government's commitment to promoting excellence, safety and sustainability within the oil and gas sector.
"I urge all gas players in Sarawak to proactively pursue ISO 29001 certification as part of their commitment to operational excellence and industry best practices," he said.
Sirim QAS International Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Nur Fadhilah Muhammad said the ISO 29001:2020 certification sets a global standard for quality management systems for the petroleum, petrochemical and natural gas industries.
She said it provides industry players with a strong framework for high-quality operations that meet regulatory requirements, besides promoting continuous improvement and enhancing operational efficiency.
"By adopting this certification, we can strengthen the foundation of these industries, ensuring sustainable growth and paving the way for future innovation," she said.
