Minister on the ground: Amir Hamzah inspecting the upgraded Pulau Betong fishing jetty during an engagement session under the Kampung Angkat Madani programme in Pulau Betong, Penang. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
BALIK PULAU: The allocation of 300 litres per month of subsidised RON95 under the Budi Madani RON95 (BUDI95) programme is deemed sufficient for a vehicle’s monthly usage, says Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.
He said based on studies conducted, it was found that 300 litres represents the average consumption, as it covers about 170km of daily commuting for cars.
“So, for example, if someone lives in Seremban and works in Kuala Lumpur or Putrajaya, it falls within the 170km we estimated,” he told reporters after attending the Kampung Angkat Madani programme at Pulau Betong.
“For workers such as e-hailing drivers who rely on their cars, we will allow them to appeal for a higher quota.”
He said this is because it is their livelihood, but they must have a valid licence as an e-hailing driver and receive approval for the additional allocation.
The minister said the government could save billions of ringgit through the subsidy rationalisation.
With oil prices expected to hover around US$75 per barrel, the government could save between RM2.5bil and RM4bil annually, he said.
Amir Hamzah added that using MyKad is the most effective way to implement the subsidy system, which also allows the ministry to distinguish between citizens and non-citizens.
“With this approach, we can address the issue of ineligible individuals. Without an identity card, there will be no access to the RON95 subsidy adjustment.
“Under existing conditions, foreigners driving vehicles from outside Malaysia, such as from Singapore or Thailand, are not eligible for subsidies because their cars are not registered in Malaysia.
“This remains in force at petrol stations. If you come to the station, you cannot buy RON95 unless the vehicle is registered in Malaysia, even if you are holding a Malaysian identity card.”
Amir Hamzah said the use of MyKad also reinforced national identity and pride.
“MyKad is the key to accessing benefits like the RON95 subsidy. If they do not have it, they are not eligible,” he said
In addressing security concerns, the minister gave his assurance that the government’s IT system followed strict security protocols under current regulations.
He said the price of petrol in Malaysia will remain among the lowest in the world when the targeted subsidy programme begins on Sept 30.
Amir Hamzah assured the public that the subsidised price of RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre will continue to be enjoyed by consumers, regardless of fluctuations in global crude oil prices.
“The subsidised price of RM1.99 per litre is among the cheapest in the world.
“Even if we eventually adjust to the market rate, Malaysia will still be one of the countries with the lowest petrol prices in the region and globally.
