KOTA KINABALU: Sabahans will be heavily burdened if the government goes ahead with its decision to do away with diesel subsidies for private vehicles cars under Budget 2024, says Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) vice-president Gee Tien Siong.
He said most Sabahans rely on privately registered diesel-powered vehicles and removing the subsidy would hit villagers, farmers and a wide section of people using such vehicles for their daily commute.
"Many Sabahans, especially those living in mountainous areas, depend on private diesel vehicles in their daily lives. This also applies to villagers who deliver farm produce daily to marketplaces.
"The majority of these diesel vehicles are privately owned, not commercial. They will undoubtedly be heavily affected and the prices of goods will rise once again.
"Once implemented, the retail price of diesel per litre will skyrocket from RM2.15 to RM3.75 per litre.
"We hope the Federal Government will heed the voices of the people of Sabah and continue to subsidise retail diesel for private use," he said.
