Petronas exploring alternative energy sources amid global supply risks, says Fadillah (Video)

KUCHING (March 22): Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) is exploring various plans to secure alternative energy supplies should gas or oil shipments be disrupted by conflicts in affected regions.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof said the national oil company is closely monitoring global developments and preparing contingency measures to ensure the country’s energy supply remains stable.

“Petronas has looked at various plans to find alternative supplies if gas or oil cannot be delivered through areas affected by the current conflicts.

“They are also monitoring supplies from Australia and countries in the Asia-Pacific region. All these alternatives are being prepared and, so far, Alhamdulillah, the planning is progressing well and our supply remains stable,” he told reporters.

He said this when met during the Majlis Ramah Mesra Rakyat organised by the Gabungan Penghulu and Community Leaders of the P194 Petra Jaya parliamentary constituency at the CIDB Convention Centre here on Sunday.

Fadillah, who is also the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, was responding to a question on measures to ensure the nation’s energy supply remains secure following the conflict in the Middle East.

Despite the current stability, he said energy conservation remains important as part of efforts to manage resources efficiently.

“What is more important, just like water, is that we must practise moderation in using energy so that we do not burn gas unnecessarily,” he said.

He added that several measures have been introduced within government operations to reduce energy consumption.

“Government offices must ensure that if they use air conditioning, they should maintain it at around 24 degrees. This will reduce gas consumption,” he said.

Fadillah also said the government is considering implementing work-from-home arrangements for certain categories of workers.

“We are also considering work from home for categories that are not essential,” he said.

At the same time, he urged the public to adopt energy-saving practices in their daily lives.

“The public must ensure that electricity is used prudently. If it is not needed, make sure the air conditioner is turned off and the switches are off. Only turn them on when necessary,” he said.

He reiterated that collective efforts from both government agencies and the public are crucial to ensure energy resources are used efficiently.