KUALA LUMPUR, March 11 — All ministries, agencies, and government-linked companies (GLCs) will not host Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house celebrations this year as a cost-saving measure following global economic uncertainties arising from the conflict in West Asia.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the decision, agreed upon by the Cabinet, was intended to send a clear message that the government is committed to adopting a more moderate and prudent approach in its spending.
“As a sign that the leadership must begin taking more positive steps, I have decided, together with the Cabinet, today that all government agencies and GLICs (government-linked investment companies) will not organise open house celebrations.
“Some have asked that if the situation is still under control and the prices and supply of necessities such as oil and gas remain sufficient, why is there a need for us to be cautious and practise thrift?
“I said this is a sensible step for us so that we do not end up trapped in a more severe situation later. It is best that we adopt a moderate and more responsible approach,” he said during a special media conference on the latest developments of the West Asia conflict today.
Apart from the cancellation of open house celebrations, ministers and members of the administration will also be restricted from undertaking overseas visits, except for engagements that have already been scheduled or are compulsory to attend.
“The government will continue to monitor developments in West Asia and plan measures to ensure the sustainability of economic growth and the well-being of the people,” Anwar said.
Meanwhile, the price of subsidised RON95 petrol under the BUDI MADANI RON95 (BUDI95) initiative will remain at RM1.99 per litre despite significantly higher market prices following the West Asian conflict.
The nation's petroleum supply remains stable, and a review with Petronas found that the country’s petroleum product supply is sufficient at least until May.
“This is certainly different from the situation in many other countries. That is why I often emphasise the importance of governance, efficient management, integrity, and professionalism.
"We will continue to face these challenges while focusing on safeguarding the interests and welfare of the people. The government must ensure that the people are protected from the full impact of rising oil prices, which would also affect the cost of other essential goods.
"That is why I have informed the Cabinet of the decision to set the BUDI95 price at RM1.99 per litre, even though market prices are much higher and the actual price is far higher, especially compared with prices in neighbouring countries, which are three times higher,” he said.
Anwar added that due to the conflict and disruptions to oil supplies from the Strait of Hormuz, more than 400 oil tankers were estimated to have been stranded, and Brent crude prices had reached US$119 per barrel on Monday (March 9).
“Although oil prices are now below the US$90 level, they remain volatile and have caused a sharp increase in market petrol and diesel,” he said.
To prevent leaks and fuel smuggling, the Prime Minister has tasked Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, together with the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN), with ensuring closer monitoring and stricter action against those attempting to take advantage of the situation.
Anwar said he understands the people's concerns and assured them that the situation remains under control.
The government will continue to monitor developments in West Asia and plan measures to ensure that the interests of the people and the country remain safeguarded.
“As we know, we have gone through tests and crises before. I am confident that, InsyaAllah (God willing), with a more responsible attitude and cooperation from all parties, the government leadership, civil servants, the private sector, and the people, we will be able to manage this challenge well.
“May Allah SWT bless our efforts and protect our country,” he said.
