“Many of my colleagues in the Gulf and in the Arab world have sought our views and assistance to convey their concerns,” Anwar said on Thursday during a joint briefing with Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese in Putrajaya.

Anwar reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to freedom of navigation following the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz for nearly seven weeks, which has disrupted energy supplies and raised prices.

He added his nation also “wants guarantees from countries, big powers included, to end animosity, attacks and even sanctions against other countries”.

He said Malaysia, as a neutral party, has been engaging with all sides, noting its ties with Russia while maintaining the US as its biggest investor. Malaysia has long-standing, cooperative ties with Iran.

Anwar also said Malaysia will prioritise Australia for any excess diesel once domestic demand is met, as supply constraints grip major agricultural economies in Asia.

He said Petroliam Nasional Bhd has assured that Australia’s needs would be prioritised, but cautioned Malaysia’s supply would be “inadequate in the medium term”.

Albanese said Australia has secured additional diesel supplies from Brunei and South Korea. At the same briefing, Anwar said Australia has also committed to honouring its liquefied natural gas contracts with Malaysia.