Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim criticises opposition for blaming government over oil price hikes driven by Middle East conflicts, stresses fuel subsidies remain.
BUKIT MERTAJAM: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has criticised opposition parties for politicising the surge in global oil prices, attributing the crisis to international conflicts beyond Malaysia’s control.
He said some were exploiting the situation of economic decline and supply disruption to hurl abuses at the government.
“The political climate must be controlled, and all parties should come together to find solutions,” he said at a Ramadan programme here today.
Anwar stated that escalating tensions, including attacks involving Iran and retaliatory actions using missiles and drones, have affected oil and gas facilities and routes.
This includes the Strait of Hormuz, causing a sharp increase in global oil prices.
The Prime Minister, who is also Finance Minister, stressed the government continues to maintain controlled fuel prices to protect the public.
He said this is despite many other countries having raised their prices.
Anwar revealed the government held a special Cabinet meeting with the National Security Council to discuss measures addressing the economic and security impact.
Discussions have also been held with Petronas to ensure sufficient oil and gas supply, which is expected to be sustainable until May.
Meanwhile, Anwar said Malaysia has been contacted by several world leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and ASEAN regional leaders.
These discussions focused on efforts to ease tensions.
He stressed Malaysia’s position as independent and neutral, but firm in championing peace and rejecting all forms of violence.
Tensions in the Middle East have escalated since Feb 28, following attacks by Israel and the United States on Iran.
This was followed by Tehran’s retaliatory strikes against US interests in Gulf countries.
