KUCHING 1 Nov 2025 : All future hydrocarbon developments in Sarawak will be required to operate on a zero-flaring basis.

The move is in line with the World Bank’s ‘Zero Routine Flaring by 2030’ initiative.

The state, in its commitment to tackling climate change had earlier enacted the Environment (Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Emission) Ordinance 2023, which took effect on March 1, 2024.

It serves as the legal backbone for the state’s transition towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Building upon this Ordinance, Sarawak has introduced the Flaring and Venting Rules, 2025, which impose strict controls on the flaring and venting of petroleum and greenhouse gases at both onshore and offshore facilities.

Under these rules, operators must obtain prior consent from the Controller of Environmental Quality before carrying out any such activities, in line with Section 5 of the Ordinance.

To support this implementation, the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) held a Stakeholder Engagement Session last October 22, introducing the new ‘Guidelines for the Flaring and Venting Rules, 2025’ which take effect on November 1.

In the session, the Controller of Environmental Quality Sarawak, Datuk Jack Liam, revealed that a total of 18 business entities from the oil and gas sector and one from the energy sector have registered with NREB, underscoring strong industry commitment to regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility.

“The session served a dual purpose: to clarify key requirements and to proactively engage stakeholders by gathering feedback, addressing concerns and integrating their valuable insights.

“These contributions are crucial in ensuring that the guidelines are practical, fair and effective, paving the way for the successful implementation of the new Ordinance,” he said.

The engagement marks another step forward in Sarawak’s environmental leadership, reinforcing the State’s proactive stance in achieving a sustainable, low-carbon future. - Sarawak Tribune