FUEL supply in Malaysia, including Sabah, remains stable and sufficient with no nationwide shortages recorded, according to the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) following a briefing to Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Haji Noor today.
The update was conveyed during a courtesy visit to Menara Kinabalu in Kota Kinabalu on Tuesday, at which Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali presented findings from a high-level coordination committee tasked with curbing leakages and smuggling across enforcement agencies.
The committee, known as the Joint Committee on Coordination to Combat Leakage and Smuggling Between Enforcement Agencies (JTPAP), has been activated to strengthen enforcement efforts, particularly in border areas including Sabah, amid rising risks linked to geopolitical tensions in West Asia and widening price differentials between subsidised domestic fuel and regional market prices.
During the meeting, the minister addressed recent rumours suggesting fuel shortages at several petrol stations in Sabah, which had been linked to supply disruptions in neighbouring countries.
“There is currently no shortage of petrol, diesel and LPG in the country. The current supply is sufficient, and the situation in our country is more stable compared to several other countries, including those in the region,” he said.
He clarified that reports of shortages were isolated incidents caused by logistical delays, particularly during peak periods such as festive seasons when demand increases.
“What has been raised and circulated are isolated logistical issues that caused delays in delivery of a few hours at certain locations, especially during festive periods with higher demand. These matters have been addressed and continuous monitoring is being carried out to ensure smooth supply distribution,” he said.
The minister urged the public not to engage in panic buying, stressing that supply remains secure and well managed.
At the same time, he reminded the public that the sale or transfer of fuel outside vehicle tanks without a special permit is an offence under the Control of Supplies Act 1961, particularly under the Control of Supplies Regulations 1974 and its 2021 amendments.
The ministry said it will take strict action against any party found violating regulations and encouraged the public to report suspicious activities through official complaint channels.
Petrol station operators were also reminded to comply fully with existing regulations and to report any breaches to the authorities.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening enforcement against fuel smuggling and leakage, particularly in vulnerable border regions, as part of broader efforts to safeguard national supply stability. - March 24, 2026
