Overview

Petroliam Nasional Berhad, commonly known as Petronas, is Malaysia's national oil and gas company. Established on 17 August 1974, it is wholly owned by the Malaysian government and is responsible for managing the country’s hydrocarbon resources. Petronas functions as an integrated energy company covering activities from exploration and production to refining, petrochemicals, marketing and shipping.

Operations and business activities

The company operates across the full value chain of the oil and gas sector. Core areas include upstream exploration and production, midstream pipeline and liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, and downstream refining and petrochemical manufacturing. Petronas also markets fuels and lubricants through a retail network and provides engineering, procurement and construction services.

  • Upstream: exploration, drilling and production of oil and gas; strategic exploration is a major focus (upstream).
  • Midstream: transportation, storage and LNG facilities that support domestic supply and exports.
  • Downstream: refining, petrochemical complexes and retail operations that deliver finished products to consumers (downstream).

History and development

Petronas was created to secure national participation in petroleum activities and to steward Malaysia’s energy resources. Over decades it has grown from a domestic manager of reserves into an international operator, entering joint ventures and investments across Asia, Africa, the Americas and the Middle East. The company negotiates production sharing agreements and manages state interests in hydrocarbon development (resources).

Governance and ownership

As a wholly state-owned enterprise, Petronas reports to the federal government and contributes to national revenue through taxes, royalties and dividends. Its governance structure includes a board of directors and executive management that oversee commercial operations while aligning with public policy objectives.

International presence and projects

Petronas has established upstream and downstream projects abroad, often in partnership with other national and international oil companies. Its LNG activities and trading have made the company a notable player in global gas markets, and it maintains shipping and logistics assets to support export flows.

Sustainability and energy transition

Facing global shifts in energy demand, Petronas has invested in lower-carbon technologies, gas-fired power, carbon management and partnerships on renewable energy and hydrogen research. The company positions natural gas as a transitional fuel while exploring ways to reduce emissions across its operations.

Economic and social role

Petronas is an important contributor to Malaysia’s economy, supporting employment, infrastructure development, research and education through scholarships and industry programs. Its brand is also visible in cultural and urban landmarks; for example, Petronas has been associated with major architectural sponsorships in Kuala Lumpur.

Research and technology

The company supports technical research, training and development to build local capacity in engineering and resource management. Petronas collaborates with universities, research institutes and industry partners to improve exploration techniques, environmental management and process technologies.

Petronas continues to play a central role in Malaysia’s energy sector while adapting its portfolio in response to global market dynamics and policy shifts toward lower-carbon energy sources.