KUALA LUMPUR — Businesses and citizens must be proactive in conserving fuel and using sustainable energy amid geopolitical conflict in the Middle East that has caused oil prices to spike, the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF).
While MEF supports the government’s fuel rationalisation efforts, a “whole-of-nation approach” is required by all segments of society, MEF president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman said in a statement to Bernama.
“All stakeholders (should) act decisively and responsibly in managing fuel consumption.
“A whole-of-nation approach (is) where policymakers provide clear direction and support, businesses drive efficiency and innovation, and the rakyat embrace more responsible consumption habits,” he said, noting that ensuring fuel and economic sustainability should not be the government’s challenge alone.
Geopolitical developments such as the ongoing conflict over Iran are beyond Malaysia’s control and the country cannot remain insulated from these external pressures, Syed Hussain added.
He called for renewable energy solutions such as solar power, and to adopt electric vehicles where feasible.
“Establishing internal task forces to identify fuel-saving strategies across operations will also be critical,” he added.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced yesterday that, effective April 1, the individual monthly limit for the purchase of BUDI95 will be temporarily adjusted to 200 litres per month from 300 litres per month previously, due to the ongoing conflict over Iran.
A majority of the rakyat are not affected by the quota reduction, as consumers, on average, use about 100 litres per month, and nearly 90 per cent consume less than 200 litres per month. – March 27, 2026