JOHOR BARU: With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East driving global market uncertainties, many are tightening their wallets in preparation for an uncertain future.
Personal assistant R. Chitra, 47, said that although the price of RON95 petrol under the Budi95 targeted fuel subsidy remains at RM1.99 per litre for now, there is no guarantee it will stay that way.
“That is the main concern for many, including me, as the removal of the subsidy will definitely affect a lot of people,” she said.
To cut costs, the mother of three said she plans to do most of her grocery shopping at hypermarkets offering lower prices.
“For now, I will also avoid going on vacations abroad. This is not just to save money but also as a safety measure, to avoid being stranded in another country, whether in the Middle East or elsewhere,” she added.
Also reducing unnecessary spending, especially vacations, is 27-year-old student Dania Najihah Hazely.
“I am following the conflict closely and honestly, I am worried about how it will affect us in the long run. For now, I have decided to reduce spending as much as I can, which means postponing any travel plans. I will also try to avoid going out with friends to save on petrol and other expenses,” she said.
Meanwhile, 72-year-old Roland Lim said he hopes the government maintains the Budi95 subsidy, which he described as a lifeline for many.
“We will do our part and reduce spending as much as we can, but we also need the government’s support. I really hope the petrol subsidy remains, as its removal would force people to cut back further, which may not be good for the economy,” he said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had previously announced that the price of RON95 petrol under the Budi95 targeted fuel subsidy mechanism will remain at RM1.99 per litre.
He said this decision aims to protect Malaysians from the full impact of petrol price hikes amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.
