KUALA LUMPUR: The decision on the proposed reduction of road tax for diesel-powered vehicles will be announced soon.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the ministry is reviewing a suitable mechanism, including evaluating any potential impacts on government revenue.
"We are conducting the study, which requires a thorough review before any final decision is made, as not all diesel vehicles are excluded from subsidies. Some still receive assistance through targeted pricing.
"Therefore, we must find a balanced approach to assist those not receiving subsidies by reducing their tax burden," he said after attending the Readers' Forum on the English Edition of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China, Volume V, here on Thursday (April 30)
On Saturday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government is considering lowering road tax on diesel vehicles to help ease people's burden amid rising fuel prices.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said he had requested for the Transport Ministry to find a suitable mechanism to reduce the price of diesel, taking into account the impact of diesel price increases.
Meanwhile, Loke said the ministry is working to implement initiatives that encourage greater use of public transport as a cost-saving measure during the current global supply crisis.
"We are trying to ensure that the use of public transport is optimised. I am aware many have complained due to occasional service disruptions, but we take these concerns seriously to ensure our systems serve the public effectively," he said. – Bernama
