Malaysia Avoids Fuel Rationing Amid Global Crisis, Says Anwar

JOHOR BARU: Malaysia remains the only country in the region that has not introduced fuel rationing despite ongoing global supply disruptions, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said.

Speaking during a meet-and-greet session at the Institute of Teacher Education (IPG) Temenggong Ibrahim campus on Friday, Anwar highlighted that several Southeast Asian nations have already implemented rationing measures, with some forced to shut down hundreds of petrol stations due to shortages.

He stressed that Malaysia continues to provide RON95 petrol at one of the lowest prices globally, at RM1.99 per liter, thanks to substantial government subsidies. While diesel prices remain high, targeted subsidies have been introduced to ease the burden on key sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and school transportation.

“Some neighboring countries are paying as high as RM10.50 per liter for fuel, while others are at RM4 or RM6. In Malaysia, it remains at RM1.99 because the government is absorbing billions of ringgit in subsidies each month,” he said.

Anwar attributed the country’s ability to maintain stable fuel supply to early policy measures, including the implementation of targeted subsidies and Malaysia’s diplomatic ties with Iran. These relations, he noted, have allowed Malaysian oil tankers to safely transit through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz.

He also addressed criticism from opposition figures, dismissing claims that Malaysia had not utilized the Strait, and urged leaders to verify facts before making public statements.

In response to rising fuel smuggling activities, Anwar announced that the government has decided to increase the number of police and enforcement personnel along national borders. He warned that fuel smuggling is causing significant financial losses, with billions of ringgit flowing out of the country.

“Our fuel prices are low, which makes smuggling more attractive. We must tighten enforcement to protect national resources,” he said.

The Prime Minister added that the government is actively coordinating with state leaders and federal ministers to manage the situation and ensure continued supply stability.

He also called on the public to stay informed about global economic and geopolitical developments and to avoid being misled by inaccurate information circulating on social media.

Meanwhile, Anwar revealed that Australia has approached Malaysia for diesel supplies amid the global shortage. The request was discussed during his recent meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, reflecting the strong bilateral ties between the two countries.

While noting that Malaysia does not currently have surplus diesel, Anwar said the country remains open to exporting if additional supply becomes available.