BUKIT MERTAJAM: Malaysia’s fuel supply will remain stable through July despite global energy route disruptions and rising shipping costs, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister credited the stability to the country’s strong diplomatic ties, including with Iran, which helped secure early clearance for Malaysian vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz to deliver oil shipments to Pengerang, Johor.
“Malaysia’s diplomatic relations with Iran are not only based on humanity and solidarity against Israeli attacks, but also to protect our national energy security.
“Our good relations with other countries have helped ensure a stable fuel supply despite global challenges affecting shipping routes and oil transportation.
“When difficulties arose involving passage through the Strait of Hormuz, Malaysia was among the earlier countries to secure clearance for its ships, allowing oil shipments to continue through,” he said after attending an event with communities in the Permatang Pauh parliamentary and Seberang Jaya state constituencies.
Anwar said the government also remained committed to maintaining the subsidised RON95 petrol price at RM1.99 per litre.
“As long as we can afford it, RON95 will remain at RM1.99,” he said, adding that Malaysia continues to offer some of the lowest fuel prices in the region.
Contrasting Malaysia’s situation with regional shortages, he said he had seen long queues and closed petrol stations when he attended the Asean Summit in Cebu, Philippines.
“Malaysia has not reached that stage,” he said.
While acknowledging that geopolitical uncertainties have pushed up shipping insurance, freight charges and commodity prices, the Prime Minister however said that domestic fuel prices remain controlled.
On diesel, he said supply remains sufficient, and subsidies will continue for targeted groups including farmers, fishermen, transport operators and school bus drivers.
Anwar returned to his hometown Penang yesterday for a brief working visit ahead of today’s Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration, where he visited friends and family and stopped by his family home.
