Malaysians want to ensure smooth process when they start fuelling up
PETALING JAYA: When construction worker Wong Chee Yoon’s identification card did not work at toll booths and convenience stores, he didn’t think much of it.
But when it was announced that the MyKad was needed to enjoy cheaper petrol, he rushed to the National Registration Department (NRD) office to get it replaced.“When I tried to use it at convenience stores or pay toll, the chip could not be read, but it did not matter much.
“However, with the rule for buying RON95 petrol, I knew it was time to change it,” the 38-year-old said at the NRD office here.
Wong was among hundreds of Malaysians queueing up to replace their MyKads ahead of the rollout of the Budi95 initiative, which will see RON95 petrol prices going down from RM2.05 to RM1.99 per litre from Tuesday,
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At the NRD office here, a line had formed at least 45 minutes before its reopening after lunch at 2.45pm yesterday.
Forty-seven-year-old Rokhman Abdullah said it was his first replacement in 15 years.
“The chip on my card is unreadable. I figured it was best to change it now, as I don’t want to lose out,” said Rokhman, a kitchen helper at a hotel here.
Advertising manager Raj Ramoo, 59, was also unwilling to take any chances.
“My card is still readable but it’s chipped at the corner. I don’t want to risk anything,” he said.
An officer on duty confirmed that there was a surge of people there since the announcement.
“There are hundreds of transactions daily, including those replacing and collecting their cards.
“We are doing our best to accommodate everyone,” he said.
At the NRD counter in the Urban Transformation Centre in Shah Alam, tokens were already snapped up by 10.30am.
Retiree M. Chelliah, 63, said his damaged MyKad had made it difficult to redeem government assistance and he was worried he would miss out on cheaper fuel, too.
However, he had to go home disappointed as the numbers had already run out.
“We will come back earlier next time,” he said.
Trader Farisha Abd Rahman, 44, took the day off to help her parents get their cards replaced.
“They’re still active drivers and government aid recipients, so getting their old cards replaced will make the payment process easier,” she said.
A similar rush was seen at Road Transport Department (JPJ) counters, with many Malaysians renewing their driving licences.
“Our counters have been packed daily since the announcement on Budi95,” said an officer.
On Monday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the reduction in RON95 petrol prices under Budi95.
However, to be eligible, one needs to be a Malaysian citizen with a working MyKad and a valid driver’s licence.
