KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong (pic) says the government should extend the exemption from the subsidised LPG usage ruling to all food operators nationwide, including mamak stalls, kopitiam, canteens and small eateries.
Referring to a recent statement by the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister, Dr Wee said the 2021 regulation limits small traders to three subsidised LPG 14kg cylinders at a time.
However, he pointed out that the interpretation is debatable.
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“According to the 2021 regulation, there is a limit of three gas cylinders before one must apply for further supply, but it doesn’t specify whether these are subsidised or commercial cylinders,” the MCA president said in a statement on Wednesday (July 2).
“In fact, since the regulation was gazetted in 2021, it has never really been enforced.
"Ultimately, enforcement depends on the discretion of government officers," he added.
Dr Wee welcomed Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali's latest decision to exempt small traders from the ruling, especially those who provide affordable meals to the public.
“While this... is a step in the right direction, it’s still not enough,” he said.
He called on the government to either extend the exemption to all food vendors or halt enforcing the policy, considering the current economic challenges.
“If enforced, this policy risks triggering another wave of inflation, and ultimately, the public will bear the burden," he said, adding that the government's reversal came after continuous pressure from the public.
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He pointed out that the MCA had also been criticised for constantly raising the issue.
“We’ve brought this up repeatedly in the media and directly to the relevant ministry.
"This is a clear example of what persistence and pressure can achieve,” he said.
Dr Wee said the party would continue to fight for fair and just policies, not just for small traders, but for everyone in the food industry.
"Let's not waste time, and let's not burden the people any further.
"As I have said from the beginning, there is no need to amend any law. The minister only needs to change the regulation," he said.
