PM Anwar assures stable petroleum and LNG supply in Malaysia despite global energy volatility and import reliance
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia has sufficient petroleum supply to withstand global energy volatility in the short term, with no immediate risk of disruption expected at least until June, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
The assurance reinforces his earlier position, when last month he said the country’s petroleum product supplies are secure at least until May 2026.
However, he said the country’s energy position remains structurally exposed, as Malaysia continues to rely on imports of certain premium-grade petroleum products despite being a major producer.
“People think we are purely a producing nation – yes, but we are also a net importer,” he said at the Kuala Lumpur–Ankara Dialogue 2026 event.
Anwar said supply stability for the coming months is underpinned by Petroliam Nasional Bhd’s (Petronas) strong ties with oil-producing countries.
“There may be some price disruptions, but in terms of supply, for the next few months, we are quite assured.”
On liquefied natural gas (LNG), he said Malaysia remains well-positioned due to its robust domestic output and established import arrangements, particularly with Australia, as well as procurement efforts in Canada through Petronas’ overseas operations.
He added that Malaysia is seeking to deepen cooperation with Turkiye across key sectors, including LNG and semiconductors, as part of a broader push to strengthen bilateral economic ties.
He also said his long-standing relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has helped anchor the growing partnership, with both leaders sharing a sense of urgency in advancing cooperation.
Anwar said beyond energy, Malaysia and Turkiye are working towards a comprehensive strategic partnership encompassing government, academic, institutional and people-to-people collaboration.
He added that at the regional level, Malaysia continues to prioritise stability and cooperation within Asean, emphasising that existing border issues with neighbouring countries are being managed through dialogue without escalation.
He cited ongoing cooperation with Thailand, Brunei and Indonesia, including joint infrastructure and economic initiatives, as evidence of a pragmatic and stable regional approach.
On broader geopolitical tensions, particularly in the South China Sea, Anwar said concerns are often overstated by external parties.
“Yes, we have overlapping claims, but neither we nor China have shown any intention to escalate tensions,” he said, adding that Malaysia maintains strong ties with China across trade, investment and defence.
He added that Asean would continue efforts to advance a code of conduct with China to manage disputes in the South China Sea, underscoring the importance of resolving regional issues independently.
“Whether in the Indian Ocean or the South China Sea, we must maintain our right and independence to resolve our own problems.”
