PUTRAJAYA May 4, 2026 – Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim today called for intensified integrity enforcement at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Sustainability (NRES), declaring zero tolerance for leaks and smuggling of natural resources.
Speaking at the ministry’s monthly assembly this morning, Anwar stressed that enforcement actions must be more decisive and consistent across all levels. “Ketirisan dan penyeludupan tidak boleh dikompromi, dan tindakan mesti lebih tegas serta konsisten di semua peringkat,” he said.
He also used the occasion to explain the global energy crisis triggered by conflicts in West Asia. Anwar noted that the conflicts have caused major disruptions to energy supply chains and significantly raised shipping costs, insurance, and security risks, particularly through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. While supplies remain available, the surge in costs is being felt worldwide, including in Malaysia.
“Walaupun bekalan masih wujud, kos untuk membawanya ke pasaran melonjak dan kesannya dirasai di seluruh dunia, termasuk Malaysia,” he added.
Anwar assured that Malaysia’s strong economic foundation positions the country well to face these challenges, though global oil and raw material price pressures are beyond national control. The MADANI Government is responding with prudent, targeted measures to protect the rakyat while safeguarding fiscal sustainability.
Among the key initiatives highlighted:
Targeted Diesel Subsidy
- More than 343,000 goods transportation vehicles enjoy diesel at RM2.15 per litre
- Over 10,000 fishermen are protected at RM1.65 per litre
- More than 350,000 Budi Madani recipients (individuals and agri-commodities) receive cash assistance
- Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan continue at RM2.15 per litre
- Total subsidy spending on petrol and diesel reaches up to RM7 billion to control logistics costs and goods prices
- Enhanced targeting to prevent leaks and smuggling
Chicken and Egg Price Management
- Shift from bulk subsidies to more strategic price control
- Stricter action against cartels through negotiations and enforcement
- Prices remain stable or even lower than during the previous subsidy period in some cases
- Savings redirected to targeted groups including farmers and fishermen
Targeted Electricity Subsidy
- Tariff restructuring protects 85% of domestic users from electricity bill hikes
- Nine million households benefit via the Energy Efficiency Incentive
- RM40 rebate for hardcore poor households, plus special rebates for educational, health and welfare institutions
- Automatic adjustment mechanism ensures fair management of fuel costs without burdening the people
Anwar reaffirmed the government’s commitment: “Dalam segala keterbatasan, Kerajaan MADANI akan terus memperkukuh dasar dan pelaksanaan agar setiap langkah benar-benar meringankan beban rakyat, sambil memastikan ekonomi negara kekal stabil dalam menghadapi ketidaktentuan global.”
The event was attended by ministry officials and staff. Anwar was also seen interacting warmly with attendees and delivering his address from the podium.
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