Petronas Gas Bhd Introduces New Regulations for Pipeline Safety

Strategic Insights -

Petronas Gas Bhd (PGB) is collaborating with the Ministry of Economy to reinforce safety and oversight around its pipeline network. Following a pipeline rupture in Putra Heights in April, the company has been asked to provide input on enhancing existing Acts, including the Gas Supply Act 1993 and the Electricity Supply Act 1990. PGB is working to introduce new regulations to strengthen its authority over pipeline developments and ensure the safety of nearby communities.

Key Takeaways:

  • PGB is working with the Ministry of Economy to introduce new regulations under the Gas Supply Act 1993 and the Electricity Supply Act 1990 to enhance safety and oversight around its pipeline network.
  • The regulations will give PGB more authority over developments surrounding its right-of-way and assure communities living nearby.
  • The Ministry of Economy called PGB to provide input on enhancing these Acts and to share lessons learned from the pipeline rupture in Putra Heights.
  • PGB is engaging with state governments to ensure better coordination and oversight, with some state governments agreeing to allow PGB to have a seat in the planning committee.
  • Strengthening regulations is about preventing risks before they occur, according to PGB managing director and chief executive officer Abdul Aziz Othman.
  • The Putra Heights pipeline rupture was caused by soil subsidence that developed over the years, shifting the pipe by nearly 16 centimeters.
  • Laboratory analysis showed signs of fatigue and stress on the structure.

Statistics:

  • PGB operates the Peninsular Gas Utilisation (PGU) network, an approximately 2,623km high-pressure transmission system.
  • The pipeline rupture in Putra Heights occurred in April this year.
  • The pipe was shifted by nearly 16 centimeters due to soil subsidence.

Sources:

  • BERNAMA News Agency
  • Abdul Aziz Othman, managing director and chief executive officer of Petronas Gas Bhd
  • Ministry of Economy
  • Gas Supply Act 1993 (Act 501)
  • Electricity Supply Act 1990