PUTRAJAYA: Daily briefings will be held by the government from today to update the public on measures addressing the ongoing global energy crisis and the Middle East conflict, says Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
The government spokesman said the daily press conference, scheduled at around 4pm, will be delivered by Deputy Prime Minister II Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who will also chair the Communications Command Centre under the National Economic Action Council (NEAC).
“The command centre will have periodic meetings, which may take place daily, and it will coordinate communications on the government’s measures and response to the global energy crisis and the Middle East conflict,” he said after the Cabinet meeting yesterday.
He added that Fadillah is expected to provide several updates later today.
Fahmi also said an announcement may be made after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim chairs a meeting with the mentris besar and chief ministers today.
“The meeting will focus on the global energy crisis and its impact to the domestic economy. Several issues will be discussed and suggestions will also be considered,” he added.
Brent crude was trading at around US$103 per barrel as of 5.20pm yesterday.
Fuel prices have experienced sharp fluctuations since the Middle East conflict escalated following attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran on Feb 28, which led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, Fahmi said the Cabinet has appointed Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan and Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir in engagements with the Parliamentary Select Committee on Finance and Economy.
He added that both ministers will present the government’s views and suggestions on addressing the global energy crisis and the Middle East conflict.
Fahmi added that the NEAC, which met on March 31, had discussed the current situation and found that fuel supplies in the country remain stable.
“We have also been informed that several ships are queueing to pass through the Strait of Hormuz without paying any toll.
“The situation is under control,” he added.
Fahmi also reminded the public that only official announcements by the Finance Ministry on fuel prices should be relied upon.
“The prices of RON95, RON97 and diesel will be announced every Wednesday and the announcement by the Finance Ministry is usually after 6pm,” he added.
