Anwar: Crisis in Hormuz Strait shows how vulnerable fossil fuel economies are

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today said growing geopolitical tensions affecting major global energy routes have exposed the vulnerabilities of relying on fossil fuels, warning that countries remain vulnerable to supply disruptions beyond their control.

Speaking at the Energy Transition Conference 2026, Anwar pointed to recent developments around the Strait of Hormuz as an example of how events far from South-east Asia can still have significant repercussions for the region.

“In the Straits of Hormuz, the epicentre lies far from here, yet its tremors are felt across the entire region. They are straining supply lines that power industries and keep homes running, while also triggering energy emergencies across Asean, neighbouring countries, and indeed the world.

“It is a stark reminder that our world is deeply interconnected, and in times of global geopolitical uncertainty, we are all equally exposed to external vulnerabilities,” he said.

He said the situation underscores the need to recognise that fossil fuels, which have powered civilisations since the industrial age, are not only finite but may also be less secure and reliable than previously assumed.

He also said Malaysia’s energy transition agenda is becoming increasingly important as the country seeks to drive economic growth through artificial intelligence, semiconductors, digital infrastructure, and other emerging technologies.

Anwar said Malaysia is also playing a leading role in advancing the Asean Power Grid, a regional initiative aimed at improving cross-border electricity connectivity and strengthening energy security across South-east Asia.