The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz after the US and Israel began their war with Iran in late February has sent shockwaves across the globe.
Oil prices have soared and stock markets have wobbled as the world waits to see when Iran will allow the key waterway - through which about 20% of all oil passes - to reopen.
Currently, only a handful of ships make it through the strait each day, and the attacks on energy infrastructure in the region have further driven prices upward.
Asia is particularly affected, with nearly 90% of the oil and gas transported through the strait destined for Asian markets. As a result, governments are taking drastic actions including remote work policies, shortened working hours, and early university closures to conserve fuel.
In the Philippines, a state of national emergency has been declared due to the energy crisis. Affected workers like jeepney drivers report drastic cuts to their earnings, with some losing their livelihoods entirely.
Meanwhile, Thai news anchors have begun broadcasting without suits to promote energy conservation, demonstrating the war's impact even in day-to-day life.
Sri Lankans face a peculiar twist: having just recovered from a financial crisis, they now deal with fuel scarcity even with available funds. Reports from various regions highlight fears of a black market emerging as fuel shortages worsen.
In Myanmar, civil strife complicates the energy crisis as private vehicle usage is restricted to alternate days to save fuel.
India, heavily reliant on imports through the Strait, faces severe disruption in industries, most notably in ceramics and hospitality sectors, further exacerbating economic uncertainty.
As the situation remains dynamic, citizens across Asia recount personal stories of adaptation and struggle due to the ongoing conflict and its aftermath on energy resources.
