PETRONAS WILL CONTINUE TO SPONSOR F1 RACE

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- Petronas says it will continue to be the
title sponsor of the Petronas Malaysian F1 Grand Prix which has proven to be an
effective platform to promote Malaysia on the global stage.

In a statement issued to Bernama Thursday, the Malaysian national oil
corporation said its participation and investment in Formula One - and in other
sports - had always been based and was built on partnerships that provided
direct support towards its business expansion, while complementing international
branding efforts.

"This requires Petronas to constantly review, evaluate and explore its
position and involvement in international motor sports," it said.

"The final race of the 2009 season at Abu Dhabi marks a turning point for
Petronas' involvement in Formula One. Petronas' partnership with the BMW Sauber
F1 Team, which is a progression of its earlier relationship with Sauber, has now
come to an end following BMW's decision to exit Formula One at the end of the
season."

Petronas also said that it was currently evaluating its future options based
on similar commercial considerations, with the eventual decision hinging upon
the ability of the new partnership in facilitating and generating sustainable
business growth for Petronas, particularly in its global operations.

"Petronas' past and current participation in international motor sports has
not only built its global brand but has significantly contributed to the growth
of its business, in particular, its lubricant and fluids business in several key
markets across Asia and Europe."

It has also paved the way for technological and knowledge acquisition
relevant to the oil and gas industry, Petronas said.
-- BERNAMA