Sarawak Chief Minister Abang Johari Openg’s claim for full rights over the oil and gas resources of the state created much fanfare among Sarawakians before the 14th general election - until the day when national oil company Petronas filed a suit against the state.

Petronas filed a suit to seek a declaration from the Federal Court that it is the exclusive owner of petroleum resources and industry regulator throughout Malaysia, including Sarawak...