KUCHING: Diesel purchase limits have come into force across Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan today (Apr 1) as part of efforts to safeguard subsidised fuel supply and curb misuse.
Under the new measure effective today, caps are imposed based on vehicle categories, with pick-up vehicles allowed up to 50 litres, commercial vehicles below three tonnes limited to 100 litres, and those above three tonnes up to 150 litres.
KPDN director-general Datuk Azman Adam said the limits are aimed at ensuring sufficient supply in the three regions, where diesel remains subsidised at RM2.15 per litre, while preventing smuggling and misuse amid rising global demand.
“To ensure stability and avoid any disruption in supply, we must put in place controls, especially when demand has surged due to external factors,” he said during a walkabout compliance inspection at a petrol station in Bau today.
To support the enforcement of the new measures, Azman said KPDN has deployed 2,400 enforcement officers nationwide, with continuous monitoring carried out at petrol stations, including checks on sales patterns, logbooks and closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage.
He added that stations recording unusual spikes in fuel sales would be subjected to closer scrutiny, including the possible placement of officers on-site as well as undercover personnel to gather intelligence.
“The enforcement effort is further strengthened through Ops Tiris 4.0, a coordinated operation involving multiple agencies such as the police, Customs, Immigration and border enforcement authorities to tackle fuel smuggling and related offences more effectively,” he added.
Azman noted that cooperation from industry players has been encouraging, particularly in Sarawak, although improvements are still needed in areas such as clearer signage on diesel limits and more effective public communication.
He pointed out that some petrol stations have already configured their pump systems to automatically cap fuel purchases, requiring customers seeking higher quantities to proceed to the counter for approval.
“At the same time, the public has been urged to play a role by reporting suspicious activities, including bulk purchases or attempts by ineligible parties to obtain subsidised fuel.
“Do not take matters into your own hands. Report directly to KPDN and we will take action within 24 hours, provided the information is complete,” he said.
KPDN has also activated its operations room in Putrajaya, which will run daily, alongside existing complaint channels including hotline, WhatsApp and toll-free services to facilitate public reporting.
Azman assured that there is no nationwide fuel shortage, adding that any temporary disruptions are typically due to logistical factors or seasonal demand, and will be investigated promptly to determine the cause.
The latest measures are part of the government’s broader efforts to ensure subsidised fuel reaches its intended beneficiaries while maintaining a stable and sufficient supply for consumers.
