KUALA LUMPUR: The travel pattern of public transport users is unlikely to change despite the lower pump price under the Budi95 initiative, as affordability and convenience remain their main considerations.
Commuters would continue to use public transport as the services remain cost-effective and practical compared with driving private vehicles, says Anthony Loke (pic).
“Public transport is affordable, especially with our RM50 monthly pass. It also offers convenience and time savings,” the Transport Minister told reporters after the opening of the Gombak Integrated Terminal by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The minister was asked whether the fuel subsidy, which sets RON95 at RM1.99 per litre beginning today, would change public behaviour in using public transport.
Loke said his ministry would continue to monitor travel data while promoting the advantages of public transport, adding that fuel prices were only one factor influencing commuting choices.
Responding to concerns that cheaper fuel might encourage greater use of private vehicles, Loke said Budi95 was a targeted initiative to ensure assistance reached the right groups.
“There are many other areas and states which depend on private vehicles, especially in the semi-rural areas and semi-urban areas, where public transport is still limited.
“While we are encouraging public transport, we have to take into consideration that not every part of the country can depend on public transport. That’s why this subsidy is important,” he said.
Under the Budi95 scheme, eligible vehicle owners can buy up to 300 litres of RON95 petrol per month at the subsidised price of RM1.99 per litre.
On another matter, Loke said immediate suspension or deregistration of commercial vehicle operators who fail to comply with the Speed Limitation Device (SLD) requirement is not a practical measure.
He said such action would involve nearly 100,000 vehicles and this would risk disrupting the supply chain, logistics and the wider industry.
“More than 97% of commercial vehicles, including tour and express buses, have yet to verify their SLD installations ahead of Oct 1. If we take immediate action, the impact will be very serious,” he said.
