From gas to gravitas: PETRONAS on media's nation-building role

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 13, 2026

Malaysia’s national oil company PETRONAS emphasized the vital role of responsible journalism in chronicling its five-decade development and energy transition journey during an interview marking The Star’s 55th anniversary. Looking forward, PETRONAS highlighted the need for credible media amid rising AI-generated content and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, sustainability, and fostering national competitiveness through ongoing collaboration with the press.

Malaysia’s national oil company PETRONAS highlighted the critical role of the media in supporting the nation’s development journey, reflecting on more than five decades of collaboration as both institutions mark significant anniversaries. In an interview coinciding with The Star’s 55th anniversary, Norafizal Mat Saad, vice-president of Group Strategic Relations & Communications at PETRONAS, emphasized how responsible journalism has helped Malaysians understand key milestones in the company’s expansion and the broader energy sector’s evolution.

Since its establishment in 1974, PETRONAS has played a central role in Malaysia’s energy landscape, taking stewardship of the country’s petroleum resources and launching its first liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to Japan in 1983, which marked Malaysia’s emergence as a significant energy exporter. More recently, PETRONAS has embarked on an energy transition journey, including the launch of Gentari in 2022, aimed at supporting the shift to more sustainable energy sources. According to Norafizal, the media has been vital not only in showcasing these achievements but also in fostering transparency through scrutiny and constructive analysis.

Looking ahead, Norafizal stressed the importance of media credibility amid a rapidly evolving information environment, including the growing presence of artificial intelligence-generated content. While acknowledging that AI can enhance the speed and efficiency of reporting, he underscored that editorial judgment remains a human responsibility and that journalists will continue to play an indispensable role in distinguishing facts from misinformation, providing context, and fostering informed public discourse.

PETRONAS also detailed its commitment to creating long-term value beyond financial performance by focusing on social and environmental responsibilities. The company invests in community well-being, education, and environmental stewardship, while developing its workforce with the skills necessary for an evolving global energy sector. As PETRONAS expands its operations internationally, the company aims to strengthen Malaysia’s capabilities, develop local talent, and contribute to national competitiveness and sustainable returns.

Highlighting the ongoing partnership between PETRONAS and the media, Norafizal pointed to the importance of transparent engagement in communicating not just corporate activities but also their broader societal significance. This collaboration includes PETRONAS’ long-term sponsorship of the Malaysian Press Institute’s journalism awards, reflecting its commitment to supporting journalistic excellence and public trust. Looking forward, PETRONAS indicated that the media’s role in navigating complex issues and technological changes will be even more crucial to shaping Malaysia’s future progress.

Together, PETRONAS and media institutions such as The Star seek to advance national development by telling stories of innovation, addressing public concerns, and encouraging societal collaboration to position Malaysia for sustained success on the global stage.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.