What if this J36 – Gas Store could talk? It might tell a story of Malaysia’s evolving petroleum industry. But it cannot. Let’s imagine its story.
The J36 – Gas Store stands as part of Universiti Malaya. This store’s story is subtly linked to the broader narrative of petrol retail in Malaysia.
Once upon a time, a company named ProJET emerged onto the scene. It was 1999. ProJET aimed to revolutionize refueling. It was touted as Malaysia’s first “Superstation”. These stations accepted credit cards and cash. They also offered additional facilities.
ProJET was a venture by ConocoPhillips and Sime Darby. Dialog Group Bhd partnered with ProJET. Their plan was ambitious. They intended to build and operate up to 150 ProJET superstations. These would include petrol retail outlets and convenience stores.
ProJET sought to improve customer offerings. In 2005, they rented out their convenience stores. Convenience Shopping Sdn Bhd then operated 24-hour 7-Eleven stores there.
At its launch, ProJET had five years of experience. ConocoPhillips introduced it in partnership with Sime Darby Bhd. ProJET was the first foreign company in 30 years. It was awarded a license to operate petrol stations in Malaysia.
Despite a smooth start, ProJET struggled. It could not penetrate the petroleum retail market effectively. By 2003, ProJET controlled only about 1% of the local market.
Then came Royal Dutch Shell PLC. In August 2007, it received approval. It could acquire 100% of ConocoPhillips’s subsidiary, Conoco Jet. This subsidiary operated ProJET retail assets in Malaysia. Subsequently, all ProJET stations were remodeled into Shell stations in late 2007. The ProJET name lives on independently.
ProJET once had up to 40 stations. These were primarily in Klang Valley, Selangor, and Kuala Lumpur. They also extended to outlying states.
While we stand here at the J36 – Gas Store. It is interesting to think back to ProJET. ProJET aimed to change how Malaysians fueled their vehicles. Though short-lived, ProJET’s ambition echoes in today’s petrol stations. The spirit of innovation remains. The J36 – Gas Store is a testament to Malaysia’s ever-changing commercial landscape. It stands quietly serving Universiti Malaya.