Malaysia civil servants to work from home amid fuel crisis, says PM

Malaysia Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim during announcement new cabinet line-up at Prime Minister Office in Putrajaya on 2 December, 2022. [AFP]

Malaysia will introduce a work-from-home policy for ministries, agencies, statutory bodies and government-linked companies starting April 15 to conserve energy during the Middle East war, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said.

The premier's announcement late Wednesday comes as the Southeast Asian nation starts to feel the impact of the Middle East war on global fuel supplies.

"The cabinet has agreed to the work-from-home policy. It aims to reduce fuel consumption and ensure a stable energy supply," Anwar said during a special briefing.

He did not give details, saying more updates would be announced soon.

Malaysia heavily subsidises fuel, with eligible citizens paying just 1.99 ringgit ($0.49) per litre of unleaded petrol.

But as global crude prices soar and Iran keeps the crucial Strait of Hormuz effectively closed, Anwar said the quota for subsidised fuel would be cut from 300 litres to 200 litres a month.

Unsubsidised fuel prices will continue to follow global market rates.

Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan last week said tankers belonging to Petronas, Sapura Energy and maritime firm MISC were awaiting clearance to safely navigate the strait.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke added that the vessels would be exempt from any prospective tolls imposed by Iran, a measure Tehran has threatened.

"We are a friendly party. We have a good diplomatic relationship with the Iranian government," he said, expressing confidence that Iran would allow the ships to pass.

In a televised address last week, Anwar thanked Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for permitting Malaysian oil tankers and their crews to continue their voyage home.