SHAH ALAM, March 30 — The government’s proactive move to maintain the subsidised RON95 price at RM1.99 per litre, alongside a temporary adjustment to BUDI95 eligibility, reflects its concern in managing current challenges.
Kajang state assemblyman David Cheong said the measure not only protects nearly 90 per cent of the population from rising costs, but also ensures a stable energy supply amid global uncertainty.
“This assistance not only supports the daily needs of recipients, but also ensures key sectors such as agriculture and commodities continue operating steadily.
“The global energy crisis triggered by prolonged conflict in West Asia is now directly affecting global economic stability, including Malaysia.
“The surge in fuel subsidies from RM3.2 billion to RM4 billion a month clearly shows the immense pressure the country is bearing to safeguard the well-being of its people,” he said in a statement.
He added that the government’s decision to maintain a special cap for the e-hailing sector, along with the temporary enforcement of diesel refuelling controls in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan, demonstrates its attentiveness to the needs of key economic sectors while curbing subsidy leakages.
“Enhanced enforcement is also a crucial step to ensure every ringgit of subsidy reaches those who truly need it.
“Economic stability is closely linked to national security, and in an uncertain global climate, unity among the people is the strongest safeguard. The responsible actions of citizens in reporting irregularities show that the spirit of togetherness remains strong.
“For example, some members of the public have promptly reported suspicious activities at petrol stations, such as repeated large-volume RON95 refuelling by certain vehicles, suspected to be for misuse or smuggling,” he added.
Cheong, who is also chairman of the Selangor National Unity Bureau, urged the public to remain united, disciplined and prudent in managing resource consumption.
“These measures are not permanent, but a collective effort to ensure the country remains stable, peaceful and resilient throughout this period of crisis,” he said.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced a new measure involving a temporary adjustment of BUDI95 eligibility from 300 litres to 200 litres per month, effective April 1.
However, Anwar, who is also finance minister, said the subsidised price of RON95 and diesel in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan remains unchanged at RM1.99 per litre and RM2.15 per litre respectively.
