PETALING JAYA: The sharp disparity between petrol and diesel prices has raised questions over the consistency of Malaysia’s fuel pricing policy, says MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
In a Facebook post, Wee said there are “two realities” that do not align, noting that while subsidised RON95 remains among the cheapest in the world at RM1.99 per litre, diesel in Peninsular Malaysia is among the most expensive globally.
“One country, two realities that are completely misaligned,” he said on Thursday (April 16).
Wee expressed concern that while diesel is usually cheaper or comparable to petrol in most countries, the opposite is true in Malaysia. He also questioned the significant price differences between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia.
He noted that diesel prices in the Peninsula are reportedly higher than in several energy-importing nations, including China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia.
“Countries without oil resources are able to manage prices better than us. Why can’t we? What exactly is our strategy?” he asked.
Wee emphasised that diesel is an “economic fuel” essential for agriculture, logistics and manufacturing rather than a lifestyle choice. He warned that high diesel costs trigger a ripple effect, driving up production and transport costs, which ultimately burdens consumers.
“Once prices go up, they rarely and hardly come down even if diesel prices drop,” he said, adding that stable costs are vital for national competitiveness.
He urged the government to review the diesel usage structure and act swiftly to protect the future of the national economy.
