Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — Anwar Ibrahim said Iran has granted Malaysian vessels passage through the Strait of Hormuz, offering limited relief as global energy markets remain strained by the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel.
In a televised address, Anwar thanked Masoud Pezeshkian for allowing Malaysian ships “early clearance” through the strategic waterway, which carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies but has been heavily restricted amid the war.
He added that efforts are underway to secure the release of Malaysian oil tankers and crew so they can safely return home, though officials did not specify how many vessels have crossed or the exact conditions of their passage.
Despite being a major LNG exporter through state energy giant Petronas, Malaysia remains dependent on Gulf crude imports, with nearly 70 percent sourced from the region. Anwar said the country is in a “better position” than many others but warned of rising economic pressure.
“Food supplies will be affected, prices will rise, including fertiliser and energy,” he said, outlining measures such as reducing subsidised fuel quotas and gradually shifting civil servants to work-from-home arrangements to conserve energy.
Iran has indicated the strait remains open to countries it considers neutral, while asserting control over the route. Tehran has acknowledged involvement in some recent attacks on commercial vessels and is reportedly considering legislation to impose transit tolls, with some ships allegedly being asked to pay up to $2 million for safe passage.
Shipping activity remains sharply reduced. Maritime data shows only a handful of vessels transiting daily, compared to around 120 ships per day before the conflict—highlighting the scale of disruption to one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
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