The day's essential Malaysian news, briefed.
Malaysia's exploration of a national petroleum reserve is well-timed, analysts say, as recurring tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea threaten regional energy security. The move should complement broader resilience measures including supplier diversification and renewable investment.
The Philippines has urged ASEAN to bolster maritime security and supply chain resilience in response to escalating geopolitical risks threatening critical shipping lanes including the Strait of Malacca and South China Sea.
Malaysia's Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah has cautioned that the government, businesses and public must prepare for significant economic shocks from the renewed closure of the Strait of Hormuz, including oil price volatility and global supply chain disruptions.
Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has welcomed reports of a ceasefire between the US and Iran, saying resolution of West Asian tensions would support global economic stability and ease energy costs.