KUCHING: The federal government’s newly announced initiative to reduce the price of RON95 petrol to RM1.99 per litre, down from the current RM2.05, is a timely relief for all Malaysians.
In expressing strong support for BUDI95, Batang Lupar MP Shafizan Kepli, said the programme allows every citizen with a MyKad and valid driving licence to enjoy the subsidised price regardless of income level.
“This initiative will help Malaysians enjoy petrol at a subsidised rate and is expected to curb leakages, ensuring that RON95 subsidies truly benefit our citizens,” he said.
While welcoming the initiative, Shafizan emphasised the importance of orderly and efficient implementation, especially in rural and remote areas of Sarawak.
“During the trial period, there may be constraints and shortcomings that require fine-tuning.
“We should give the government room to find the best methods so BUDI95 meets its objectives,” he explained.
He also urged the government to pair the subsidy with strict enforcement to prevent black-market resale of subsidised fuel, a problem previously seen with subsidised diesel.
Shafizan highlighted that in parts of Sarawak, RON95 is still sold in small quantities through village shops because many longhouse and interior settlements are far from petrol stations.
“The government must find solutions to ensure residents in rural and interior areas can also benefit from BUDI95 and are not disadvantaged by subsidy rationalisation,” he added.
But he was confident that with effective planning and enforcement, the BUDI95 programme can deliver fair fuel subsidies, strengthen price stability, and support all Malaysians, urban and rural alike.
