KUALA LUMPUR: Enforcement and monitoring at the country’s borders will be stepped up to curb fuel smuggling, following the rise in global oil prices due to tensions in the Middle East, says Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali.
The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister said his ministry would intensify Ops Tiris to ensure fuel supplies are not smuggled out to neighbouring countries.
“Global oil prices have risen significantly now, exceeding US$100 per barrel (as of Monday). The risk of smuggling will remain as industrial prices will increase in line with market prices.
“When compared with fuel prices in neighbouring countries that do not have subsidies, there is a fairly high tendency for smuggling to occur. That is why we will strengthen our enforcement,” Armizan told a press conference.
Tensions in the Middle East have escalated since Feb 28 following attacks by Israel and the United States on Iran, followed by retaliatory strikes by Teheran against US interests in Gulf countries.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had said the government would do its utmost to maintain the price of RON95 at RM1.99 per litre so that it does not burden the people.
Separately, Armizan said the public should not engage in panic buying over concerns the conflict could affect imports, as supply of essential goods, particularly for the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive season, is sufficient.
His ministry would work closely with Agriculture and Food Security and the Investment, Trade and Industry ministries to identify alternative sources of supply should any exporting countries suspend exports due to the conflict, Bernama reported.
“I would like to assure the public, they need not worry and don’t engage in panic buying as the supply of essential goods for the festive season is sufficient and already available,” he said.
