[UPDATED] Loke: We are in crisis mode

SHAH ALAM: Malaysia is now operating in crisis mode, with the government convening weekly National Economic Action Council (NEAC) meetings as the Middle East conflict escalates, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said today.

He said the council was briefed earlier today, underscoring the seriousness of the situation, with energy costs having surged by more than 100 per cent over the past month.

Loke said the conflict, which has stretched beyond a month, has caused widespread global disruption.

"This is not a laughing or joking matter. It is a very, very serious matter.

"For the past month, energy costs have risen by more than 100 per cent. Many industries are affected. Some countries are already in emergency mode. For example, the Philippines has declared an energy emergency.

"Countries near us, such as Thailand and Vietnam, are already facing shortages, with people queuing for fuel.

"Thankfully, this situation is not happening in our country. But we cannot take things for granted, because sooner or later, we will feel the impact," he said in his speech at a school funding ceremony for SMKJ Chan Wa here.

Loke warned although the full impact has yet to be felt, Malaysians must begin adopting fuel-saving habits to cushion against potential disruptions if the conflict prolongs.

"We must not waste resources. Resources are not infinite and can be depleted.

"For example, in transportation, we must encourage people to plan their travel more efficiently. Malaysians tend to rely heavily on driving because petrol is subsidised.

"But we must cut down unnecessary travel and be more efficient. If there is an option to use public transport, please do so," he said.

He also urged companies to take proactive steps to conserve energy.

"Employers should encourage staff to carpool. These are simple steps we can take as a community and as individuals.

"If we do not start doing this now, we will face greater risks later as a country," he said.

Loke added that while fuel supply remains stable for now, uncertainties remain in the months ahead.

"Malaysia is an oil-producing country, but we still depend on global supply. The government's focus now is to ensure that fuel supply can be sustained.

"Our current supply is not expected to be disrupted until May. But if the war prolongs, we cannot guarantee that supply will not be affected. This is something all of us must pay full attention to," he said.

He said the situation should also serve as a reminder for Malaysians to adopt more sustainable habits, including reducing food wastage.

"We currently have a lot of supply of chicken and eggs. So in terms of protein sources, we can consume more chicken and eggs.

"Food waste is a major issue in the country. We throw away tonnes of food every day.

"This not only wastes the cost of food, but also the cost of managing that waste. It is double wastage," he said.

Loke said he was not trying to paint a gloomy picture, especially following recent festive celebrations, but stressed the need for awareness and preparedness.

"At the same time, we must continue to do good things. We must preserve peace and harmony, and maintain a sense of positivity while improving ourselves and changing our habits," he said.

The conflict in the Middle East escalated on Feb 28 following large-scale military strikes by the United States and Israel on multiple sites in Iran, which Tehran said targeted civilian and strategic infrastructure.

The attacks have since triggered a broader regional crisis, with retaliatory measures by Iran — including restrictions on vessel movements in the Strait of Hormuz — raising concerns over global energy security and shipping routes.