KUCHING: The rollout of the RON95 subsidy at RM1.99 per litre for the ‘Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah‘ (STR) recipients under the BUDI95 programme has been welcomed as a timely measure to ease the financial strain of B40 households.
Beneficiaries shared that the initiative has not only reduced their fuel expenses but also allowed them to allocate more income towards other daily essentials.
While the subsidy has provided much-needed relief, some have voiced out that consistent monitoring, wider accessibility, and stronger public awareness are crucial to ensure the long-term success of the BUDI95 programme.
Sarawak Tribune spoke several recipients on how the subsidy has impacted their lives and the improvements they hope to see moving forward.
Ahmad Farhan, 35, Entrepreneur:
The 300-litre quota is sufficient for my daily needs, and it definitely helps me save every month. But I think the programme can be made stronger by improving accessibility, addressing connectivity problems, and ensuring clearer public communication so more people can benefit without confusion. Stronger monitoring and enforcement would also give people confidence that the subsidy is used fairly.
Mohd Zufar, 34, Banker:
While the savings may not be huge, they are still meaningful. For the programme to be fair and effective in the long run, I believe digital integration and technical support should be improved, coverage expanded to reach vulnerable groups, and steps taken to ensure its long-term viability beyond the current framework.
Razza Willi, 32, Security Officer:
The subsidy makes fuel costs more manageable and allows us to focus on essentials, which is a relief. What I feel could make it even better is having a more integrated database across agencies, so eligibility is verified accurately, and regular monitoring and auditing to prevent misuse of subsidy cards. An efficient complaint channel should also be provided so the public can raise issues directly.
At the same time, public education campaigns are needed to raise awareness on how subsidies should be used responsibly, so people understand the rationale behind the programme. These steps are important to ensure fairness, prevent abuse, and make sure the subsidy truly reaches those who need it most.
Siti Noorfadziella, 35, Teacher:
It works well for the first 300 litres, but accessibility at petrol stations must be smoother, especially for senior citizens. Long waiting times and congestion can be stressful, so ensuring a more efficient system at the pump will make a big difference.
