Anwar Assures No Impact on Fuel Supply Despite Tanker Breakdown in Strait of Hormuz
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has assured that Malaysia’s fuel supply remains stable despite a breakdown involving one of the oil tankers transporting crude to the country through the Strait of Hormuz.
He said the affected vessel is currently undergoing repairs at a port, but the situation is under control as another tanker from the same shipment has already successfully docked.
According to Anwar, the government has taken precautionary measures to ensure sufficient fuel supply, with current reserves expected to last at least until May.
“We do not foresee any immediate disruption to petrol supply as other shipments are proceeding as planned,” he said after Friday prayers in Cheras.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global oil transit route, through which a significant portion of Malaysia’s crude imports passes.
Given ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region, the government has taken diplomatic steps to ensure the safe passage of Malaysian-flagged vessels.
Diplomatic Efforts Secure Safe Passage
Earlier, Anwar revealed that he had engaged with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to reaffirm Malaysia’s neutral stance in regional conflicts.
Following these discussions, seven Malaysian-linked tankers were granted special clearance to pass through the strait safely.
Of these, six vessels have already successfully navigated the route and are currently en route to Malaysia, specifically to the Pengerang Integrated Complex.
The tanker that encountered technical issues is the seventh vessel in the series.
The Prime Minister’s Office said one vessel has already departed, while six others have received approval and are awaiting their turn to leave.
Balancing Supply Stability and Cost Pressures
Approximately 38 percent of Malaysia’s crude oil imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, making the stability of this route crucial for national energy security.
The government is also under pressure to maintain the RON95 petrol price ceiling at RM1.99 per litre, which requires careful management of import costs.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, has previously warned that prolonged disruptions could force Malaysia to source crude oil from the spot market at higher prices.
Such a scenario would significantly increase subsidy costs and place additional strain on the national budget.
For now, however, the government remains confident that a combination of logistical planning and diplomatic engagement will ensure continued stability in fuel supply.
The situation underscores the importance of proactive risk management strategies in safeguarding energy security amid evolving geopolitical uncertainties.
-wilayah.com.my
