Anwar slams ‘inaccurate, superficial’ claims by ‘ulama’ on fuel prices

 Prime minister says such claims can confuse the public.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said many believed the claim by ‘an ulama’ that news about oil prices increasing was fake. (Bernama pic)

PUTRAJAYA:

 Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today hit out at a claim by “an ulama” that Malaysia has been the only country to see an increase in fuel prices following the conflict in the Middle East.

He said such claims were “inaccurate”, “superficial”, and would confuse the public.

“There is a renowned ulama, with many followers, who claimed that news about oil prices increasing was fake, and that it was only in Malaysia.

“His take on the matter is superficial, but because it was interwoven with Quranic and religious teachings, it led many to believe him,” Anwar said when meeting with personnel from the transport ministry.

He did not name the ulama in question, but was believed to be referring to PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang, who had questioned the increase in diesel price in West Malaysia.

Speaking yesterday, Hadi said such an increase was not imposed in Sabah and Sarawak, and lacked a solid basis.

The Marang MP said linking fuel price hikes to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, including Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, should not be a means to justify the increase in diesel price for Peninsular Malaysia.

The retail price of diesel in Peninsular Malaysia until April 15 is set at RM6.72 per litre.

Anwar also hit out at those whom he said issued “half-baked” and inaccurate statements on the increase in fuel prices.

“There are a few political pundits who are quick to comment. They only provide half-truths, which risk becoming absolutes.”

He said fuel prices were influenced by several factors, including global events, and were not solely based on whether a country is an oil-producing nation.

“That’s the reality of the global market,” he added.

He said while key fuel supply routes remained operational and shipments to Malaysia had not been disrupted, overall costs had risen significantly due to increased insurance and transportation expenses.

He said the oil procured before the conflict had been delayed in the Strait of Hormuz and was now being redirected to Pengerang, contributing to the higher costs.

“Insurance premiums have surged by more than 100%, while freight charges have also increased substantially.

“This means that the oil initially expected to be processed at a lower cost in Pengerang is now significantly more expensive.” - FMT