DIESEL supply in Johor remains stable despite a few petrol stations experiencing a shortage due to delivery delays.
“So far, such instances are short-term,” said Johor Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) director Lilis Saslinda Pornomo.
“Oil companies are also required to provide an explanation if this happens, especially if it persists,” she told StarMetro.
She said that companies receiving the diesel subsidy could split their monthly quota between two oil companies instead of just relying on one.
“Eligible operators are required to select a petrol company under the Subsidised Diesel Control System (SKDS).
“They can only use the subsidy when refuelling at stations operated by the company they have chosen.
“Those facing a supply issue with their selected company can update their preference through the system, allowing them to allocate 50% of their quota to one company and 50% to another.”
A random check at 10 petrol stations around Johor Baru found that most had ample supply of diesel, while two had displayed “out of fuel” signs.
Despite the ministry’s assurance, however, many diesel vehicle owners are opting to cut back travelling amid the energy crisis.
Lorry driver Mohd Zainal Shafie, 48, said he went to at least three petrol stations in early April before he could finally pump diesel.
“Under the diesel subsidy, we can only pump fuel from one or two petrol companies that the company has chosen.
“Problems arise when they run out of supply and we have to pay the unsubsidised price for fuel from another company.
“Due to this, those eligible for the subsidy may face disruption from time to time. I myself experienced it once,” said Zainal.
However, another lorry driver, M. Sarawana, 54, said, “I have yet to experience that. I believe such cases are usually just short-term.
“The only time I faced a supply shortage was during the Covid-19 pandemic which significantly affected my business.”
Johor Trucking Association president Chai Pei Yoon said some members had faced difficulty with fuel supply.
“The supply seems to have gone back to normal now but for about two days in early April, many struggled.
“Many are worried about the unstable supply and are even opting to operate within a smaller area to avoid being stranded without fuel,” she said.
The limit set under the diesel subsidy is the main problem affecting truckers, she noted.
“The difference is very significant. That is why we will still try to get diesel from the petrol companies allocated to us, even when the others have supply.
“We hope the government will be more flexible as this issue will eventually affect all of us if left unaddressed,” Chai said, adding that it would take about a month to switch petrol companies or opt for two companies under SKDS.
