In a Facebook post yesterday (Apr 6), he warned that the war in the Middle East had intensified, with attacks increasingly targeting infrastructure and oil refineries, as indicated by those involved in the conflict, reports the Bangkok Post.
The situation had raised the risk to global supply, he said, and warned that beyond rising prices, securing oil imports may become difficult.
While Thailand maintained relatively high oil reserves, the country remained vulnerable due to its heavy reliance on imported crude, he said. It could not continue managing energy in the same way.
He said public awareness about the energy situation must be raised, alongside measures to better manage supply and minimise the impact on the public.
Anutin said the Cabinet had already approved work-from-home arrangements for government agencies, and other energy-saving measures. He stressed that strict implementation was now needed.
He urged businesses and the public to follow suit, through work-from-home arrangements, reduced use of private vehicles, increased use of public transport and carpooling, and more electricity-saving efforts.
He also said that additional measures may be introduced as necessary, while stressing that the government was committed to alleviating the impact on the people.
Anutin expressed confidence that with cooperation from all sectors Thailand could weather the crisis, as it has always done.