KUALA LUMPUR - Thailand’s Caretaker Prime Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered government agencies and state enterprises to immediately implement work from home (WFH) arrangements to reduce energy consumption amid rising tensions in West Asia.

Deputy Government Spokesperson, Lalida Prertwiwatthana said the directive applies to departments where WFH would not affect public services, as part of wider efforts to improve public sector efficiency.

She added that the prime minister has also instructed agencies to suspend overseas study visits and training programs, and to conduct such activities domestically instead.

“All agencies have been instructed to implement these measures while ensuring that public services remain unaffected,” Lalida said in a statement after the Cabinet meeting last Tuesday.

She added that authorities will closely monitor global economic and energy developments to ensure policies can be adjusted appropriately and in a timely manner.

Deputy Government Spokesperson, Airin Phanpharit said Thailand’s average daily demand for refined oil products is about 124 million litres.

She added that as of March 5, Thailand held total oil reserves of 8.055 billion litres, while average consumption of refined oil products is around 3.13 million barrels per day.

Airin said Thailand still relies heavily on crude oil imports, particularly from West Asia.

She added that the country’s total oil reserves, including statutory and commercial reserves, can meet energy needs to a certain extent, totaling about 8.054 billion litres.

“Nevertheless, the Ministry of Energy has proposed additional energy-saving measures for government agencies to promote efficient energy use and set an example for other sectors of society,” Airin added.