Consumers happy over the unchanged diesel subsidy in Sabah and Sarawak

KOTA KINABALU: Consumers in Sabah are relieved that the diesel subsidy retargeting programme does not involves the two Borneo states.

Sabah West Coast Smart Consumers Association president David Chan said the news brought a relief to many locals, who are concerned about the potential price hike if the programme is to be carried out in the state.

He welcomed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's move to exclude Sabah and Sarawak from the programme.

"This shows that he understands the plight of the people,” he said when contacted on Friday (Nov 3).

Chan said many people in Sabah depend on diesel for their livelihood.

He explained that the locals are forced to drive diesel-operated four-wheel-drive vehicles due to the terrain and road conditions.

On Nov 3, Anwar said the retargeting of the diesel subsidy in phases would only be carried out in the peninsula.

It would not involve Sabah and Sarawak due to the comprehensive use of diesel in these states, he added.

"In order to implement it there, we will have to study the impact,” he said in winding up the debate on the Supply Bill 2024 at the policy stage in the Dewan Rakyat.

Anwar said the total annual subsidy cost which has reached RM81bil is also being enjoyed by foreign nationals and the rich.