Amir Hamzah said that the government is encouraging energy conservation measures in public offices, including reviewing work-from-home arrangements and adjusting air-conditioning settings, Free Malaysia Today reported.
Anwar – who is also the finance minister – has ordered top civil service leaders in the country to conduct a comprehensive review of the work-from-home arrangements to ensure administrative consistency across the board, said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
Fahmi, who is also the spokesperson for the unity government, said that Anwar has tasked the chief secretary to the government and the Public Service Department director-general to examine the policy’s feasibility and coordination.
A decision is expected on Mar 17, he said.
Earlier, Transport Minister Anthony Loke on Thursday said that airlines may need to suspend certain flight operations if fuel prices continue to rise due to the Iran war, noting that fuel accounts for nearly half of airlines’ operating expenses.
Loke said that he had met airline management, airport operators, jet fuel suppliers and aviation authorities to coordinate efforts in addressing the conflict between the United States and Israel against Iran.
“The transport ministry will engage with airport authorities and relevant stakeholders to support the sustainability of local airlines. Airlines will also share data with our aviation authorities to enable a more comprehensive risk assessment,” he said in a Facebook post.
“All parties also agreed to meet weekly as this crisis remains volatile and requires rapid action in the event of new developments.”
Separately, Anwar on Wednesday also announced precautionary spending controls due to the economic effects of the ongoing conflict.
These include cancelling Hari Raya open houses hosted by government agencies and limiting overseas travels for ministers and officials.
“All ministers and members of the administration, including departments, have been ordered to limit overseas trips, aside from those that are already scheduled and are compulsory to attend,” he said, as quoted by The Star.
“This sends a message for more prudent spending.”
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/malaysia-soaring-fuel-costs-subsidy-bill-middle-east-iran-war-ron95-ron97-5991601
