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Malaysia adopts work-from-home policy amid energy concerns

A person refuels his car at a gas station in Mulhouse, eastern France, on April 1, 2026. (AFP Photo)
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A person refuels his car at a gas station in Mulhouse, eastern France, on April 1, 2026. (AFP Photo)
April 02, 2026 09:58 AM GMT+03:00

Malaysia will implement a work-from-home policy for government institutions starting April 15 to reduce fuel consumption and ensure energy stability as global supplies are affected by the Middle East war, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said.

The policy will apply to ministries, agencies, statutory bodies and government-linked companies, according to the announcement made late Wednesday during a special briefing.

Policy aims to cut fuel use as crisis deepens

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

He did not provide further details, noting that additional information would be announced later.

Malaysia has begun to feel the effects of disruptions to global fuel supplies as crude prices rise and Iran keeps the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed.

The government also announced a reduction in subsidised fuel quotas, lowering the monthly limit from 300 litres to 200 litres per person.

Malaysia heavily subsidises fuel, with eligible citizens paying 1.99 ringgit ($0.49) per litre of unleaded petrol, while unsubsidised prices continue to follow global market rates.

This photograph shows an empty gas station as oil is out of stock, in Lutterbach, eastern France, on April 1, 2026. (AFP Photo)
This photograph shows an empty gas station as oil is out of stock, in Lutterbach, eastern France, on April 1, 2026. (AFP Photo)

Shipping concerns and diplomatic coordination

Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan said last week that tankers belonging to Petronas, Sapura Energy and maritime firm MISC are awaiting clearance to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the vessels would be exempt from any potential tolls imposed by Iran, expressing confidence that they would be allowed to pass due to Malaysia’s diplomatic ties.

“We are a friendly party. We have a good diplomatic relationship with the Iranian government,” he said.

In a televised address last week, Anwar thanked Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for allowing Malaysian oil tankers and their crews to continue their return journey.

The measures reflect Malaysia’s response to growing energy pressures linked to the ongoing conflict and disruptions in key global shipping routes.

April 02, 2026 09:58 AM GMT+03:00
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