Anwar urges Malaysians to understand fuel hikes in global context, citing supply routes, insurance and freight costs
PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged Malaysians not to adopt a one-sided view when discussing rising fuel prices, stressing that the issue must be understood within the broader context of global developments rather than narrow or misleading narratives.
Speaking at the Transport Ministry’s monthly assembly, he said public discourse must be grounded in facts.
“We must not blur the line between what is true and what is false when we have the means to seek out the facts. Ultimately God is all-knowing, and we are entrusted with the responsibility to act with integrity.”
His remarks appeared directed at PAS president Tun Abdul Hadi Awang, who had questioned why Malaysia appeared to be the only country affected by fuel price increases following the West Asia conflict.
Anwar said such claims reflect a misunderstanding of how global energy markets operate, adding that disruptions at critical supply chokepoints have widespread consequences.
He highlighted the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of global oil supply moves, and other key routes such as the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Suez Canal.
“Even if our ships are able to pass through, that does not mean costs remain unchanged.”
Anwar said Malaysia had managed to secure safe passage for its vessels through diplomatic engagement, including cooperation with Iran, allowing shipments to continue reaching refineries such as Pengerang.
He said the impact, however, goes beyond access to shipping routes.
Anwar said oil that was purchased earlier at a lower price was delayed in transit and the cost structure had already changed significantly by the time it arrived.
The Tambun MP said the delay not only impacted the end price but also insurance premiums.
He said in some cases insurance premiums rose by 100% and freight charges had also increased.
“This means the oil that was initially cheaper becomes significantly more expensive by the time it reaches our refineries. These are real cost pressures that cannot be ignored.”
Anwar said Malaysia remains exposed to global price fluctuations despite being an oil-producing country as it is still a net importer of refined petroleum products.
He also called on civil servants to take a more proactive role in explaining these complexities to the public.
“This is not about defending the prime minister, ministers or the government blindly. It is about presenting the facts clearly.”
He encouraged a more open culture within government institutions, urging senior officials, including secretaries-general and department heads, to allow space for bottom-up feedback.
“Meetings must not be one-way monologues. They should provide room for views from all levels.
“There are individuals regarded as religious scholars who claim that oil prices have not increased. This reflects a clear lack of understanding, yet it is presented in a way that makes people believe it.”
For the period from April 9 to 15, RON97 rose by 40 sen to RM5.35 per litre and RON95 has been priced at RM4.27 per litre for unsubsidised users, reflecting a 40 sen increase, while it is RM1.99 per litre under the Budi95 subsidy scheme.
Diesel price in Peninsular Malaysia increased by 70 sen to a new record high of RM6.72 per litre while in East Malaysia it remains unchanged at RM2.15 per litre.
