Malaysia mandates work from home for public sector to combat energy crisis

PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced a mandatory work-from-home directive for the public sector to address an escalating global energy crisis.

The policy applies to all government departments, statutory bodies, and government-linked companies (GLCs) across the nation.

Effective from 15 April 2026, the measure seeks to reduce domestic fuel consumption significantly.

The Prime Minister confirmed the decision during a special briefing held on 1 April 2026. Detailed guidelines for implementation are expected to be released by relevant authorities shortly.

The move forms part of a preemptive strategy named the People’s Support Initiative (Inisiatif Sokongan Rakyat).

It aims to protect the Malaysian population from sudden energy price shocks. Anwar Ibrahim stressed that safeguarding energy security is now a primary national priority.

During the briefing, the Prime Minister explained that the Cabinet reached this decision to ensure the long-term sustainability of the energy supply. Ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, the United States, and Iran have significantly disrupted global supply chains.

Malaysia has managed to maintain the price of RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre despite these international pressures.

However, the Prime Minister warned that the global situation is likely to deteriorate further. He noted that any recovery period would likely be prolonged.

The government is currently allocating approximately RM4 billion (approx US$994 million) every month to absorb rising oil costs.

This expenditure is intended to shield consumers from the immediate impact of global price spikes. Anwar Ibrahim described the financial burden as substantial.

Capacity to maintain such high levels of subsidy is limited.

The Prime Minister urged the nation to look at the economic challenges faced by other countries.

He stated that the government must act responsibly to ensure fiscal stability during these uncertain times.

Existing energy measures include a monthly 200-litre quota under the Budi Madani 95 scheme.

The government has also fully enforced subsidised diesel mechanisms in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan. These steps aim to ensure that financial assistance reaches targeted groups.

Anwar Ibrahim cautioned against complacency, even if global tensions appear to ease momentarily.

He remarked that any society taking such matters lightly risks facing significantly greater challenges. The Prime Minister called for a shift in public mindset regarding energy use.

National oil company Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) has provided assurances regarding current energy stocks.

Petronas confirmed it can guarantee adequate supplies of oil and gas until at least May 2026. This period serves as a vital buffer for the administration.

Efforts to diversify energy sources are also being intensified by the administration. The government is actively seeking new import sources for oil and gas from various international partners. This strategy is supported by the operational performance of Petronas in managing national resources.

The administration has also directed that Hari Raya Aidilfitri in 2026 be observed modestly.

This includes significant cuts to government spending and the cancellation of large-scale events. Such measures reflect the shift away from a business-as-usual approach.

Anwar Ibrahim concluded that the current global circumstances require significant adjustments to national policy and lifestyle. He emphasised that these changes are necessary to protect the public.