Recent statements by Putrajaya MP Radzi Jidin regarding the alleged export of diesel from Malaysia to the Philippines are misleading and risk creating unnecessary confusion among the rakyat.
The National Economic Action Council (MTEN) has clearly stated that the diesel shipment in question did not originate from Malaysia. This position is further reinforced by Petronas, which has categorically denied any involvement in supplying diesel to the Philippines or entering into any such arrangement.
More importantly, Radzi Jidin, as a member of the Parliamentary Special Select Committee on Finance and Economy, was present during briefings where it was clearly explained that Malaysia’s diesel production is insufficient to meet domestic consumption needs. Malaysia is, in fact, a net importer of diesel.
In light of this, the claim that Malaysia is exporting diesel to the Philippines in such volumes is not only misleading, but fundamentally inconsistent with the facts that he himself has been briefed on.
The reference made to the Philippines Department of Energy statement does not automatically mean that the diesel was sourced from Malaysia in terms of production or export by Malaysian entities. In global oil markets, transactions often involve intermediaries, trading hubs, and complex supply chains, where cargo descriptions do not necessarily reflect the true origin of the fuel.
It is therefore irresponsible to selectively cite foreign statements while disregarding official domestic clarifications and established facts.
At a time when global energy markets are volatile and sensitive, public statements must be grounded in facts and responsibility, not speculation or political narrative.
Malaysia’s fuel supply remains stable, and the Government, together with Petronas and relevant agencies, continues to prioritise domestic needs.
Public confidence should not be undermined by statements that ignore both facts and prior briefings.