Perak: The Perak State Government is looking into implementing budget realignment to deal with the impact of the global energy crisis following the conflict in West Asia, said Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saarani stated that the state government does not currently plan to hold a special session of the State Legislative Assembly to present a supplementary budget to cushion the impact of the crisis. Saarani highlighted the government's previous experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, where they managed to avoid tabling a supplementary budget by realigning existing funds. This approach involved redirecting resources from projects affected by increased construction costs to other forms of assistance and needs.

He made these remarks during the oral question and answer session at the State Legislative Assembly sitting, responding to a query from Nga Kor Ming (PH-Kepayang) about the state's readiness to present a supplementary budget to aid those impacted by the global energy crisis.

Saarani also mentioned additional measures, noting that besides federal assistance, the state government would explore methods to support the populace, such as the cheap sale of food products by the Perak State Agricultural Development Corporation (SADC). He acknowledged the challenges posed by rising diesel prices, which could affect goods transportation. The state may consider subsidies for lorries to ensure they can continue operations without price hikes on goods despite increasing diesel costs.