Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says Petronas can negotiate with Russia to secure oil, ensuring Malaysia’s energy reserves remain sufficient for domestic needs.
KOTA BHARU: Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) can negotiate with Russia for oil supply to ensure sufficient national energy reserves. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this proactive step is viable as many European nations are now competing again for Russian oil.
He noted that countries which previously sanctioned Moscow are returning due to current economic needs. “Alhamdulillah, our relations with Russia remain good,” Anwar said when speaking at the official opening of a new terminal here.
He stated that Petronas can negotiate to meet part of Malaysia’s needs as a friendly nation. Geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the US and Europe directly impact the global transport sector by affecting oil prices.
Anwar highlighted that early government diplomacy ensured Malaysian oil tankers were among the first to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. This action avoided major disruptions to the national energy supply chain.
A Petronas tanker safely arrived at the Pengerang Integrated Complex in Johor yesterday. The arrival is crucial as oil refining processes can only be carried out at that specific facility.
He said this success resulted from early engagement with Iranian leadership. Passage was granted while international negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz remained deadlocked.
The global crisis has also led other countries to seek Malaysia’s cooperation. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently visited to discuss supplies of petrol, diesel and fertiliser.
However, Anwar stressed the government prioritises the interests of the people and domestic market first. “Domestic needs are given priority,” he stated firmly.
He added that assistance to other nations is only considered if there is a surplus.
“If there is a surplus, we help friendly nations, but if not, we focus on our own people first,” he stressed.
