Sri Lanka has announced that all Wednesdays will now be public-sector holidays in an effort to conserve fuel, as the country braces for potential shortages linked to the ongoing US and Israeli conflict with Iran.
We must prepare for the worst, but hope for the best”, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said during an emergency meeting with senior officials on Monday.
In Sri Lanka, the newly introduced four-day work week will extend to schools and universities, though essential services like healthcare and immigration will continue to operate normally.
Wednesday was selected the additional day off in order to avoid consecutive three-day closures of government institutions.
Authorities have also reinstated a National Fuel Pass system, which limits the amount of fuel individuals can purchase. Under the current rules, private car owners are allocated 15 litres, while motorcyclists receive five litres per quota period.
The system, first introduced during Sri Lanka’s severe economic crisis in 2022, has drawn criticism from some citizens who argue that the limits are insufficient.
The move is part of a broader wave of austerity measures introduced across Asia after disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which is one of the world’s most critical energy route, has curtailed the flow of oil shipments.
Last year, nearly 90% of the oil and gas passing through the strait was destined for Asia.
Asia is the world’s largest oil-importing region.
Governments across the region have responded with a range of energy-saving initiatives.
In Thailand, officials are encouraging citizens to swap formal office wear for short-sleeved clothing to reduce reliance on air conditioning.
Myanmar has introduced a system allowing private vehicles on the roads only on alternating days, based on licence plate numbers.
Bangladesh has advanced university holidays for Ramadan and implemented scheduled power cuts nationwide.
In the Philippines, some government agencies now require employees to work remotely at least once a week, and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has prohibited non-essential travel within the public sector.
Marcos has also introduced financial aid for vulnerable groups (including tricycle drivers, farmers and fishermen)to offset rising fuel costs. The support ranges from 3,000 to 5,000 pesos ($50–$84).
Vietnam has urged citizens to limit travel and conserve energy, promoting alternatives such as cycling, carpooling and public transport, while discouraging unnecessary use of private vehicles.
Global oil prices have surged in recent weeks, reaching around $100 per barrel.
