KUCHING: The prolonged crisis in the Gulf region is expected to lead to higher air travel costs, including flights between Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia, following the increase in global oil prices.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof said the rise in global oil prices is also anticipated to affect insurance and logistics costs, which in turn could influence the cost of both air and sea transportation.
According to him, the situation may result in the imposition of fuel surcharges on domestic and international flights, ultimately affecting travel costs for the public, including those in Sarawak.
“When oil prices increase, insurance and logistics costs will also rise. This includes the operating costs of aircraft and maritime transportation.
“Travel between Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia could also be affected due to the possible imposition of fuel surcharges on domestic and international flights,” he said.
He said this when met by the media after attending the Program Sumbangsih Santunan Kasih Seindah Syawal at the Samariang State Legislative Assembly Service Centre here on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Datuk Amar Fadillah also urged the public to practise prudent energy consumption in order to reduce fuel usage and ensure the country’s energy supply can be utilised for a longer period.
He added that Malaysia currently still has sufficient gas supply at least until May, in addition to several alternative supply options that have been identified by Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS), including sources from Australia.
He further noted that the country’s economic and financial position remains sound and resilient at present, although precautionary measures should continue to be taken should the crisis persist. -UKASnews
