Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will discuss with Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) a proposal for the Malaysian oil company to explore the possibility of oil exploration in the Maldives. Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, expressed confidence in Petronas' capabilities and its extensive international experience in the oil and gas sector.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stated, "On the issue of the proposal to get Petronas to look at the possibility of oil exploration, well, I will have to discuss this with Petronas. And I believe in the strength of Petronas now throughout the world, from Canada to Turkmenistan to Sudan and to Suriname, Peru and Brazil. I don't think it's too much a problem to come closer here to Maldives."

Anwar made these remarks at a joint press conference with Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu at the President's Office. The Prime Minister's comments came in response to matters raised during discussions with the Maldives leadership as part of his two-day official visit to the island republic.

Petronas has an international presence across various oil markets, with Anwar highlighting its operations in several countries as evidence of the national oil company's capabilities. Anwar's visit to the Maldives marks the last day of his two-day official engagement with the island nation.