PUTRAJAYA – Two Malaysian-owned vessels are currently on their way back to Malaysia, while five others remain stranded in the Strait of Hormuz following geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
Government spokesperson Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the update was presented to the Cabinet during a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“At this time, we have been informed that two vessels are en route. One is expected to arrive on April 17 (Friday), while the other may arrive the following week.
“Five vessels are still in the Strait of Hormuz,” he said during a press conference following a Special Briefing on the Global Energy Crisis and the post-Cabinet meeting here on Wednesday.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes, particularly for global crude oil transport and any disruption in the area could impact supply chains and energy prices.
The latest development comes as tensions in West Asia continue to draw international attention, including issues related to sanctions affecting the movement of commercial vessels.
At the same time, Fahmi said the matter is expected to be raised during an upcoming meeting between the Malaysian Prime Minister and his Australian counterpart.
Although the specific agenda has yet to be shared with the Cabinet, the government expects issues related to the West Asia conflict, including the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, to be discussed.
“I believe the Prime Minister will raise Malaysia’s position on the West Asia conflict and certainly the issue of restrictions affecting the Strait of Hormuz will be discussed,” he said.
He added that at least two memoranda of understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed during the official visit of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, which begins on Thursday.
The bilateral discussions are also expected to cover issues related to the global energy crisis, which continues to put pressure on many countries, including Malaysia.