Govt urged to consider WFH policy to ease oil price impact

LocalPolitics
12 Mar 2026 • 8:59 PM MYT
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Angkatan Muda Keadilan proposes targeted work-from-home to reduce travel, save fuel and manage subsidy pressure amid global uncertainty.

KUALA LUMPUR: The government has been urged to consider targeted work-from-home policies for certain sectors to mitigate the impact of rising global oil prices.

Angkatan Muda Keadilan chief Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim (pic) said this proactive step could reduce daily travel and ease pressure on fuel subsidies, particularly for RON95.

He proposed starting the initiative in government offices, agencies, and government-linked companies before expanding to the private sector.

“This approach can help ease city traffic, lower transport costs, and reduce fuel use amid global economic uncertainty,” he said in a statement.

Muhammad Kamil, who is also Political Secretary to the Finance Minister, suggested a flexible approach with a few WFH days per week based on operational needs.

He added that the move aligns with improving work-life balance and supporting sustainability by cutting vehicle use and carbon emissions.

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the suitability of WFH for the public sector will be studied.

Fahmi, the government spokesperson, noted the government is aware some companies have adopted hybrid work since the pandemic.

He said the matter may be discussed at a Special Cabinet Committee meeting.

Several ASEAN countries have introduced similar energy-saving measures to conserve fuel.

Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines are encouraging WFH arrangements amid oil price rises and supply disruptions linked to conflict in West Asia.