JOHOR BARU: Groups here are calling for the government to step up enforcement of current laws to curb the unauthorised sale of subsidised RON95 petrol rather than introduce new policies.
Johor Baru Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Low Kueck Shin said it was “troublesome” to introduce new programmes with unclear mechanisms that might confuse the public.
“Those in south Johor, especially Johor Baru, are aware that foreign-registered vehicles are not allowed to pump RON95 petrol, which is subsidised by the government for Malaysians.
“Foreign-registered vehicles including those from Singapore can only purchase unsubsidised petrol such as RON97.
“We find it unnecessary to set up an unsubsidised RON95 petrol station. It is better for the government agencies to beef up enforcement to catch those who go against the law by purchasing subsidised fuel.
“The law has been put in place for many years. Petrol station operators, kiosk attendants and even other consumers are quite alert and vigilant about this, too,” he said when interviewed.
Malaysia Tourist Guides Council president Jimmy Leong said the government’s proposal to set up an unsubsidised petrol station will have minimal effect on Johor’s tourism sector.
“Tourists drive into Johor for leisurely activities and pumping petrol is only a small part of their trip – they usually fill up their tanks before heading back to Singapore at night,” he said.
“While many foreigners are aware of the law, there are still those who flout it, with such incidents having been captured in photos and videos by other consumers who later post them on social media.”
On Saturday, Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub said a study is being carried out to set up an unsubsidised RON95 petrol station in Johor.
