Speaking at a monthly assembly with transport ministry staff, Anwar said this information was personally conveyed to him by the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Hamad Al Thani.

“Even if the war ends tomorrow, according to Sheikh Tamim, it will take at least three years for minor repairs before gas operations can resume.

“Full performance may take between three and five years,” he said in his speech.

Anwar also said that the public must understand the concept of gratitude in the proper context, particularly amid economic pressures and rising costs such as for diesel.

“Some say that in difficult economic times, we are told to be grateful. Yes, we are grateful that we are still alive, healthy, and that the country’s situation is not as difficult as in some other nations,” he said.

“We are not facing long queues at petrol stations, hundreds of stations have not shut down, and people are not forced to walk to work.

“Gratitude is important, but it does not mean we deny the tests and problems in the economic crisis we are going through.”

On the economy, Anwar said the latest data from Bank Negara Malaysia showed that the country’s economic position was better than expected.

He said growth had exceeded initial projections, investment was at a record high, inflation remained among the lowest, and the ringgit was performing well compared to other Asian currencies.

Regarding the temporary cut in the BUDI95 monthly fuel quota from 300 litres to 200 litres, Anwar said the government could not make short-term populist decisions that could create bigger problems later.

“Policies must take into account both current and future challenges,” he said.

The adjustment started on April 1 due to surging global fuel prices after the conflict in the Middle East effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz.