WFH, limits on official travel curtailed to avoid fuel strain - PM

THE Malaysian government is reviewing a series of measures to curb energy consumption nationwide as global supply pressures intensify, with proposals under consideration that include restricting the movement of Cabinet ministers and government departments, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said.

He said the initiatives are aimed at preventing Malaysia from entering a fuel rationing scenario already being experienced in several other countries, amid emerging constraints in diesel supply.

Speaking to reporters after Friday prayers at Masjid Bandar Permas Jaya on Friday (24 April), Anwar said the issue would be finalised at a forthcoming meeting of the National Economic Action Council (MTEN), which has now been meeting every two days with relevant ministries and agencies to closely monitor the situation.

"We want to avoid (supply shortage issues). So, we need to find ways to reduce energy consumption, such as working from home, as well as other necessary measures," he said.

"We are grateful that, so far, oil supply remains sufficient until the end of June, but diesel supply has begun to face problems. Therefore, several measures will be announced from time to time,” he added.

Anwar said the current situation requires urgent and decisive intervention, warning that any delay in action could have serious consequences for both the economy and daily life if shortages materialise.

“These measures have reached a critical stage. We can no longer delay, as any postponement will affect the economy and the daily lives of the people if a supply shortage occurs,” he said.

He added that MTEN is maintaining continuous oversight of the country’s energy supply situation, with frequent coordination between ministries and agencies to ensure swift policy responses.

When asked whether the global energy pressures could influence the timing of state elections, the prime minister said the matter had not been discussed. - April 24, 2026