Energy use in govt buildings tightened - DPM

Energy controls in government buildings will be tightened, including setting air-conditioning temperatures at no lower than 24°C, following the global energy crisis, said Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof.

Fadillah, who also serves as the Energy Transition and Water Transformation minister, urged civil servants to wear attire better suited to the local climate, such as batik, corporate shirts, or baju Melayu, to reduce reliance on excessive cooling.

He said this reflects the government’s commitment to leading by example in prudent energy use.

“As a proactive response to the global energy crisis, the government will implement several energy-saving measures at the national level,” he said at the Global Energy Crisis Briefing, broadcast live by local TV stations today.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced in a video message that a work-from-home policy will be introduced from April 15 for the public sector and government-linked companies.

The decision, made at a cabinet meeting, aims to cut fuel consumption and ensure the sustainability of the nation’s energy supply.

Fadillah said Malaysia remains in a stable position but is ready to take proactive measures to manage the impact of the global energy crisis.

“We are now in a challenging phase of the global economic landscape. The ongoing global energy crisis, following conflict in West Asia, has had a direct impact on energy supply and prices worldwide,” he said.

He noted that disruptions to key routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, which is a vital artery for global oil flows, have heightened market uncertainty and pushed prices higher.

As an open economy, Malaysia is not insulated from the fallout, he said.

“We must remain vigilant and take precautionary measures should the crisis persist,” Fadillah said, adding that the government recognises public concern over the crisis.

The cabinet yesterday agreed to establish a Communications Command Centre linked to the National Economic Action Council to coordinate the government’s response to the crisis.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the centre will be chaired by Fadillah, with daily briefings or media updates scheduled around 4pm.

- Bernama

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