KUALA LUMPUR: The government will refine the implementation of targeted subsidies for essential goods such as sugar, rice and cooking oil in stages, says Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying.
She said the aim is to channel aid efficiently to those truly in need and to prevent leakages.
ALSO READ: Targeted subsidies save government RM15.5bil annually, says Anwar
Lim then added that the approach will mirror the implementation of targeted fuel subsidies for diesel and the Budi95 programme.
“At present, the government’s priority is to ensure the smooth implementation of targeted fuel subsidy programmes, such as for diesel and Budi95, as the foundation for a more comprehensive subsidy restructuring,” she said during Question Time.
She was replying to a supplementary question from Syerleena Abdul Rashid (PH–Bukit Bendera).
ALSO READ: Fuel subsidies: A new era of targeted support
Under Budi95, Malaysians aged 16 and above with an active driving licence are eligible to buy up to 300 litres of subsidised RON95 per month using their MyKad.
Syerleena asked whether targeted subsidies will be expanded to items such as sugar, cooking oil and rice to reach intended groups more accurately and reduce leakages.
To ensure subsidised goods reach target groups, Lim said the government has enhanced and continued enforcement operations with other agencies.
She said these include Ops Tiris and Kita Gempur to combat manipulation and leakage of subsidised goods.
“In addition, the government will ensure the availability of subsidised sugar, rice and cooking oil at every Madani Rahmah Food Sale event,” she said.
“For 2025, the programme will expand from at least twice a month in each parliamentary constituency to at least twice a month in every state seat,” added Lim.
She said this covers over 600 state constituencies nationwide.
“As a result, subsidised goods will be more easily accessible, especially in areas where they may not be readily available in regular retail shops,” she said.
