Govt sets coordinated response to global energy crisis, prioritising supply security, cost relief

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia has established a clear and coordinated strategy to manage a deepening global energy crisis, with a focus on safeguarding fuel supplies and ensuring that the daily lives of citizens remain unaffected.

Following the recent meeting of the National Economic Action Council, Anwar said efforts are being driven through the central role of Petroliam Nasional Bhd, alongside early planning to ensure sufficient supply in the months ahead.

"At the same time, measures to cushion rising costs are being strengthened through additional diesel subsidies for paddy farmers, agricultural workers, smallholders and individual vehicle owners," he said in a post on X.

He stressed that the government’s overriding priority remains the protection of public welfare, while maintaining discipline and realism in policy implementation.

Parallel efforts are also being intensified to manage demand through more efficient energy use, including the introduction of work-from-home arrangements for civil servants beginning tomorrow.

Enforcement operations under Ops Tiris have been stepped up to curb leakages and smuggling activities that could undermine the country’s fuel supply.

Looking further ahead, Anwar said Malaysia is accelerating its transition towards renewable energy sources to reduce dependence on volatile imported fuels.

"Biodiesel has been identified as the most practical near-term solution, with a gradual increase in the blending rate to B15 using existing infrastructure.

"This approach allows for immediate action while awaiting the full development of new systems.

"With a strong industrial base and domestic capacity, these measures will not only stabilise current supply but also strengthen national energy resilience to ensure that the rakyat’s daily lives remain protected amid global uncertainty," he said.

Bank Rakyat to Sharpen Mandate and Pursue Sustainable Growth

Separately, Anwar has urged Bank Kerjasama Rakyat Malaysia Bhd (Bank Rakyat) to seek new growth opportunities while reinforcing its founding mandate, as the institution positions itself for a more competitive and sustainable future.

He said the bank must explore avenues that would strengthen its business model for mutual benefit, while demonstrating greater courage and vision in delivering on its original purpose.

Anwar made the remarks after receiving a courtesy call from the bank’s chairman, Datuk Mohd Irwan Mohd Mubarak, and chief executive officer, Ahmad Shahril Mohd Shariff, during which he was briefed on its financial performance in 2025 and strategic direction for the year ahead.

He welcomed the bank’s strong governance and financial standing, noting that its performance reflected discipline and a high level of commitment in managing entrusted responsibilities.

“At the same time, discussions also focused on efforts to strengthen the Islamic banking and financial system. I emphasise that the principles of justice, kindness and inclusiveness must continue to be the core in expanding the role of Islamic finance, in line with the MADANI aspirations,” he said in a post on X today. - April 15, 2026