Anwar Ibrahim Speaks Frankly: Many Countries Competing, Negotiating to Buy Russian Oil

KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has signalled opportunities for Malaysia to negotiate with Russia to obtain crude oil supplies, in line with changing geopolitical dynamics and ongoing global energy needs.

In his speech at the opening of Sultan Ismail Petra Airport in Kelantan on Saturday (18/4), Anwar stated that the Malaysian government, including the national energy company Petronas, is open to exploring cooperation with Russia to meet domestic fuel requirements.

“In the current situation, the government, including Petronas, can negotiate with Russia to meet some of Malaysia’s needs as a friendly nation,” Anwar said, as quoted from an official statement in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday (19/4).

Anwar highlighted the changing attitudes of Western countries towards Russian oil. Whereas Europe and the United States previously imposed sanctions and import restrictions, the current geopolitical realities and global economic pressures are forcing adjustments.

According to him, this situation is creating new dynamics in the global energy market, where many countries are now racing to negotiate and request purchases of oil from Russia.

“Now, many countries are competing, negotiating, and pleading to buy oil from Russia. That’s interesting,” he said.

He emphasised that Malaysia is in a relatively advantageous position due to its good bilateral relations with Moscow. This is seen as opening opportunities for Kuala Lumpur to secure energy supplies amid global uncertainties.

Previously, Anwar had also mentioned the possibility of purchasing Russian crude oil in a joint statement with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese following a bilateral meeting in Malaysia on Thursday (16/4).

On that occasion, Anwar stressed that Malaysia’s foreign policy remains open and pragmatic, fostering good relations with various countries to protect national interests.