Muhyiddin Urges Genuine Talks with Opposition on Energy Crisis

MUAR, April — Former Malaysian prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin said the opposition is ready to cooperate with the government in discussions aimed at tackling the global energy crisis but warned that such engagement must be sincere and meaningful.

Muhyiddin, who is also a senior figure in the opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional, said any effort by the federal government to invite opposition leaders into discussions should be conducted with real commitment rather than being treated as a symbolic or “token” gesture.

Speaking to reporters during a Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house event in his Pagoh parliamentary constituency, Muhyiddin said the opposition would welcome dialogue if the government was truly serious about finding solutions to the challenges posed by rising global energy prices.

“We welcome it if the prime minister is open to discussions,” he said, adding that the issue should not be treated lightly as it affects the entire nation and has direct consequences for the public.

Malaysia, like many countries, is currently facing pressure from the global energy crisis triggered by geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions in international oil markets. Rising energy prices have increased concerns about inflation, transportation costs, and the broader impact on the country’s economy.

The government led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has already introduced several measures to mitigate the impact of rising energy costs, including energy-saving initiatives and policies aimed at stabilising fuel prices for consumers.

Among the measures announced recently is a work-from-home arrangement for certain public sector employees and government-linked companies starting mid-April, which aims to reduce fuel consumption and ease pressure on the country’s energy supply.

Muhyiddin emphasised that addressing the energy crisis requires cooperation across political lines because the issue extends beyond partisan interests and affects the livelihoods of ordinary Malaysians. He noted that meaningful dialogue between the government and opposition could help produce stronger policies and long-term strategies to safeguard national energy security.

He also cautioned that any government initiative involving opposition participation should not be conducted merely to create the appearance of unity or consultation. Instead, he said, it should involve genuine collaboration where ideas and solutions from all sides are seriously considered.

Analysts say the call for bipartisan cooperation reflects the increasing urgency surrounding energy security, particularly as global conflicts and supply chain disruptions continue to drive volatility in oil markets. If global energy prices remain elevated, governments across the region may need to introduce additional measures to manage fuel subsidies, electricity costs, and inflation pressures.

For Malaysia, maintaining stable energy supplies while protecting consumers from rising prices remains a major policy challenge. The situation has prompted calls from both government and opposition leaders for coordinated action to ensure that the country can weather the economic impact of global energy instability.