KUALA LUMPUR, July 23 -- Sarawak state-owned oil and gas company Petroliam Nasional Sarawak Berhad (Petros) has begun producing its first oil, pumping 800 barrels a day from an onshore well near Marudi earlier this week, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg announced yesterday.

Speaking at the Sarawak Day assembly in Sibu, Abang Johari described the milestone as a historic achievement that marked a significant step in the state's push to strengthen its control over its oil and gas industry, Harian Metro reported.

He said the inaugural production was a special Sarawak Day gift to the people of the state and demonstrated the ability of Sarawakians to explore and manage their own natural resources.

"I would like to announce, as a gift to th...