KUCHING: The federal government has been urged to consider a special approach to the implementation of diesel purchase quotas in Sarawak, taking into account the state’s geographical challenges and the needs of rural and remote communities, which differ significantly from those in Peninsular Malaysia.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the current diesel purchase limit should be reviewed, particularly for residents in remote areas who have to travel long distances to obtain fuel supplies.
He said some people living in the interior incur high travel costs to reach the nearest petrol station but are only allowed to purchase up to 100 litres of diesel per transaction.
“For example, in Bario, it can take up to 15 hours to reach the nearest petrol station. Therefore, we need to consider the actual situation faced by people in Sarawak.
“I hope special consideration can be given to assist those who are in such circumstances,” he said after chairing the Sarawak State Consumer Movement (GPN) meeting here on Monday (Jun 8).
He appealed for special consideration to be given to Sarawak, especially in areas that still rely on generators for electricity supply and use boats as their primary mode of transportation, both of which require diesel.
Meanwhile, Awang Tengah said the meeting also discussed consumer complaints received throughout the year and the follow-up actions that need to be taken based on those reports.
According to him, the meeting also received reports on inspections carried out at business premises and petrol stations, in addition to briefings on the National Consumer Policy 2.0 and the Subsidised Diesel Control System.
In a related development, he said GPN Sarawak will intensify its efforts to disseminate information to the public to improve understanding of subsidy implementation, including application procedures and the process of obtaining available assistance.
“This is important because without proper explanation, the public will face difficulties in understanding the facilities and assistance provided.
“Therefore, these efforts will continue to be strengthened as we aim to educate, train and raise awareness among consumers regarding their rights as consumers,” he said.
He also stressed that enforcement efforts will continue to be enhanced through close cooperation among various agencies, particularly in addressing leakages that require immediate action.
He added that coordination between agencies is crucial in strengthening enforcement efforts and ensuring that responsibility for curbing misconduct does not rest solely with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN).
