Bangladesh has sought Malaysia’s assistance in addressing its ongoing gas supply crisis, with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman raising the issue during a telephone conversation with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
The discussion took place on Tuesday as Bangladesh continues to face an acute shortage of natural gas, disrupting household cooking, industrial operations and transport services in different parts of the country.
According to government officials, Prime Minister Rahman asked Malaysia’s support in helping Bangladesh overcome the energy shortfall, which has placed increasing pressure on both consumers and businesses.
In response, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim assured his Bangladeshi counterpart that he would consult the relevant Malaysian authorities to examine possible options for supporting Bangladesh’s energy needs.
The conversation comes at a time when the government is working to restore stability to the country’s gas supply network following widespread disruptions.
State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit confirmed the development while speaking to reporters at the Secretariat later on Tuesday.
He said the Malaysian leader had expressed willingness to explore avenues of cooperation after consulting the appropriate agencies.
Bangladesh has been grappling with an extended gas shortage that has affected domestic consumers as well as energy-intensive industries.
Many households have reported difficulties with cooking, while manufacturers have warned that lower gas availability has affected production and increased operating costs. The transport sector has also experienced disruptions linked to reduced gas supplies.
The government has been pursuing a range of measures to ease the crisis, including efforts to improve fuel supplies and strengthen cooperation with international partners.
The latest engagement with Malaysia reflects Bangladesh’s broader diplomatic efforts to secure support from friendly countries as it seeks to stabilise its energy sector.
No further details of any specific assistance or timeline for potential support were announced following the telephone conversation.
However, officials indicated that discussions between the two countries are expected to continue as Malaysia reviews possible options for cooperation.
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