03/11/2025

MONDAY | NOV 3, 2025

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Targeted fuel subsidy move proves to be boon for M’sians

PETALING JAYA: Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has issued a public apology after a video showing him reprimanding a reporter during last week’s “I Lite U” pre-launch in Bukit Bintang was widely circulated on social media. The video sparked online criticism and led to calls for the minister to show greater political maturity. In a post on his Facebook page as well as at a media conference yesterday, Nga said he accepted the feedback “with an open heart”, and reaffirmed his respect for freedom of expression. “If any member of the media felt upset or hurt by my words, I sincerely apologise. “Those who know me over the past 30 years know that I have always respected freedom, especially freedom of expression.” Nga added that he remains focused on nation-building and upholding Malaysia’s dignity. “I hope we can focus on ensuring that we continue to uphold the dignity of the nation. I want to focus on nation-building. That is important.” In an earlier statement, Nga offered to meet the reporter involved in the incident. “With humility, I am open to meeting with the media involved soon so that this issue can be settled properly and in good faith.” He also stressed that he has always respected media freedom and had no intention of offending anyone, particularly journalists whom he described as “the backbone of the Madani government’s information network”. “My objective has always been to help build an inclusive and progressive multiracial Malaysia that upholds the nation’s dignity internationally.” The controversy began when a reporter asked during a Kuala Lumpur City Hall event why the “I Lite U” project theme was presented in English rather than in the national language The video of the exchange was quickly circulated widely on social media, prompting widespread commentary and public calls for an apology. – By Harith Kamal Minister issues public apology

decent. In one month, I’ve used almost 75% of the 300 litres allocated. Three hundred litres sounds like a lot but when you’re driving hundreds of kilometres every week, the amount runs out quickly. He said vehicle type plays a big role in how far the subsidy stretches. “I drive an old car, so it’s not very fuel-efficient. Even with subsidised petrol, I find myself refuelling often. Imagine if I have to do four interstate trips.” For part-time e-hailing driver Ahmad Farhan Rosli, 32, the subsidy has had a smaller personal impact. Driving mostly on weekends and after work, he said he had not noticed a major difference in his expenses. He said full-time drivers have, however, benefited significantly. “From what I hear, full-time drivers are split 50-50 on it. The

separate 600-litre allocation for e-hailing drivers is a fair move but some say it’s still not enough. “The allocation is good but I think it could be slightly higher. Still, it’s positive that the government recognised the difference instead of treating everyone the same.” He added that overall, Budi95 remains a helpful initiative. Motorcyclist Hafiz Rahman, 28, said the subsidy has made a noticeable difference to his commuting costs from Rawang to Damansara for work each day. He said the savings allowed him to stretch his monthly budget further. Hafiz added that while Budi95 has eased fuel costs, he has to cope with other rising expenses. “Petrol might be a bit cheaper now but food and rent keep going up. It’s still a struggle to balance everything.”

o Over 1.33b litres of RON95 petrol worth RM2.66b bought between Sept 30 and Oct 31 by 13 million motorists

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

the period to ease the cost-of-living burden of Malaysians. Muhammad Ryan Haizar, 26, said the subsidy had helped him better manage the cost of frequent long-distance travel for work and personal trips. The project coordinator said he often drives to northern states for assignments and makes weekly trips to Malacca. He added that petrol used to consume a significant portion of his monthly budget. “I would say the Budi95 subsidy is

PETALING JAYA: The Budi95 petrol subsidy initiative, which was rolled out a month ago, is proving to be a boon to Malaysians. According to the Finance Ministry, 13.1 million Malaysians benefitted from the subsidy between Sept 30 and Oct 31, purchasing 1.33 billion litres of RON95 petrol worth RM2.66 billion. The government provided about RM800 million in subsidies during

The government has provided about RM800 million in subsidies to ease the cost-of-living burden of Malaysians over a month-long period. – SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN /THESUN

Budi95 system gets thumbs up from Fomca PETALING JAYA: Malaysians are adapting well to the newly implemented Budi95 targeted fuel subsidy system, with most consumers expressing satisfaction with it, said the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca). greater awareness of their fuel usage. Many are planning travel more efficiently, and the quota has proven sufficient for personal and family needs for the vast majority.” essential items. “This increase in consumer spending helps local businesses and stimulates the domestic economy, creating a positive ripple effect in communities.”

workers, informal earners or small traders face challenges accessing the subsidy. Saravanan said while Fomca does not have sufficient data yet to confirm such cases, evidence-based policy adjustments are important. “Collaborating with e-hailing associations, logistics companies and small business networks would help identify real usage trends. If certain sectors require more support, appropriate adjustments could be made without compromising the integrity of the system.” Saravanan offered several recommendations to enhance the efficiency of the Budi95 system, including expanding digital integration through more e-wallets and improving public awareness. – By Harith Kamal

support for petrol operators are crucial to ensure smooth operations nationwide. Some questions have arisen regarding jointly used vehicles in households, particularly when only one member qualifies for the subsidy. Saravanan said while such cases are not widespread, clear and consistent communication remains vital. “Public awareness has improved over the past few weeks but outreach is essential, especially in rural and suburban areas. “Not all consumers are comfortable with digital platforms, so community briefings, radio programmes and printed materials in multiple languages could help.” He said concerns had also been raised that certain groups such as gig

Saravanan said Fomca strongly recommends retaining the 300-litre limit, which balances fairness, predictability and fiscal responsibility. He also pointed out the broader economic benefits of providing the subsidy. “Budi95 is more than just a subsidy mechanism, it is a form of market stimulus. By easing fuel costs, it promotes spending at local businesses and strengthens local economies. “Reducing household fuel expenditure indirectly boosts disposable income, allowing consumers to spend on other

Saravanan said the MyKad verification system, which allows fuel stations to identify eligible users, has generally performed well, with only a few isolated technical glitches reported. “There have been minor issues such as failed scans or temporary downtime at certain stations but these were minimal and quickly resolved.” He said the system strikes a balance between convenience and accountability. He emphasised that continuous monitoring and prompt technical

Its CEO Saravanan Thambirajah said feedback from motorists after a month have been largely positive. “The overall response to Budi95 has been encouraging. Consumers are adjusting to the new quota system and the MyKad-based verification process is functioning smoothly in most cases.” Introduced to replace blanket fuel subsidies, Budi95 ensures that assistance reaches those who truly need it while curbing smuggling and misuse. “Most Malaysians now display