Anwar: Stop politicising oil price surge driven by global crisis

 

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has criticised parties he says are politicising rising global oil prices, stressing that the surge is driven by international conflicts beyond Malaysia’s control.

He said that amid escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly in West Asia, some groups continue to blame the government without acknowledging the broader global situation.

“There are those who take advantage of this situation when the economy is declining, and oil supply is disrupted. It is not our fault, yet there are still some opposition members who hurl abuses at us in the current situation.

“The political climate must be controlled, and all parties should come together to find solutions,” he said.

Speaking at a Ramadan programme with community leaders in Permatang Pauh, Penang, Anwar pointed to rising tensions involving Iran, including missile and drone attacks, which have affected oil and gas infrastructure and key routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, contributing to the spike in global prices.

Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said the government has kept fuel prices at controlled levels to cushion the impact on the public, even as many countries have raised prices.

He added that a special cabinet meeting with the National Security Council had been convened to assess the economic and security implications.

The government has also engaged with Petronas to ensure sufficient oil and gas supply, which is expected to remain stable until May.

On the diplomatic front, Anwar said Malaysia has been in contact with several global leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as well as Asean counterparts, to discuss efforts to de-escalate tensions.

He reaffirmed Malaysia’s position as independent and neutral, while remaining firm in advocating peace and rejecting all forms of violence.

Tensions in the Middle East have intensified since Feb 28, following attacks by Israel and the United States on Iran, and subsequent retaliatory strikes by Tehran against US-linked interests in the Gulf.

- Bernama