Kuala lumpur: The current supply of petrol, diesel, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Malaysia remains stable, with no shortages reported so far, according to Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali. He assured that the national supply situation is more stable compared to some other countries, including those within the region.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Armizan clarified that the issues being raised are isolated cases related to logistics, which have caused delivery delays of a few hours in certain locations, especially during the festive season when demand spikes. These logistics issues have been addressed, and continuous monitoring is underway to ensure smooth delivery of supplies. Armizan's comments followed a courtesy call on Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
Armizan also addressed claims of insufficient fuel supply at several petrol stations in Sabah, linking these to supply disruptions in neighboring countries. He urged the public not to engage in panic buying, emphasizing that supplies are sufficient. He reminded that any sale and filling of fuel outside vehicle tanks without a special permit is an offense under the Control of Supplies Act 1961 and related regulations. The ministry is prepared to take firm action against violators and encourages the public to report suspicious activities through the KPDN complaint platform. Petrol station operators are also urged to comply with regulations and report any violations.
During the courtesy call, Armizan briefed the Chief Minister on the Inter-Agency Coordination Committee to Combat Leakage and Smuggling (JTPAP). This initiative has been activated to enhance enforcement efforts against fuel smuggling and misappropriation, particularly in border areas including Sabah. Armizan highlighted the increasing risk of leakage due to the West Asia conflict and the significant price gap between subsidized domestic fuel prices and market prices in neighboring countries.
In related developments, Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji stressed the importance of consistent fuel supply to support the state's economic activities, including logistics, fisheries, and agriculture sectors, which depend heavily on diesel. Hajiji also received a briefing from Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) chairman Tan Sri Mohd Salim Fateh Din on the progress of the National Digital Network (JENDELA) implementation in Sabah and the Kota Kinabalu City Hall Smart City initiative.