PETALING JAYA: Transport operators are backing the rollout of B15 biodiesel, which starts next month, although concerns remain over compatibility with older lorries and long-term maintenance costs.
Pan Malaysian Bus Operators Association president Datuk Mohamad Ashfar Ali said bus operators generally support the move, noting that the industry has gradually adapted from earlier B5 and B10 biodiesel blends.
“This helps the local palm oil industry and also alleviates our import bills for fuel,” he said.
On May 4, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the government had decided that 19 licensed plants can produce B15 biodiesel beginning June 1 as part of efforts to stabilise and lower diesel prices nationwide.
Ashfar said modern bus engines were already designed with biodiesel blends and that they could cope well with B15 fuel.
“In the earlier days, there were fears of corrosion because of the materials used, but now, there is none.”
He added that operators had not raised major concerns over engine performance or repair costs, even for buses manufactured in the 1990s and early 2000s.
“There won’t be much increase in repairs or operational costs. Most operators are happy and have no issue,” he said.
Ashfar also noted that operators would still have the option of using Euro 5 diesel.
“As long as it doesn’t damage the vehicle or create additional operational costs, we will support the government policy.”
Malaysian Trucking Federation president Datuk Ng Koong Sinn said readiness among lorry operators remained mixed due to technical concerns involving older vehicle fleets.
“The primary concern among operators is the technical readiness of existing vehicle fleets.”
Ng said B15 biodiesel’s higher moisture content could pose risks to high-pressure fuel injection systems.
“Even small amounts of water can cause corrosion of injector nozzles and internal components, potentially leading to premature failure.”
He added that higher biodiesel blends could also increase the risk of microbial contamination, or “diesel bug”, which may clog filters and affect engine performance.
For older lorries, Ng said operators expected more frequent maintenance as biodiesel could loosen deposits within ageing fuel systems.
“We believe the transition currently offers more clear-cut benefits for modern, Euro-standard engines,” he said.
Ng also questioned whether fuel savings would outweigh possible increases in maintenance and repair costs.
“Any potential savings in fuel price could be offset by increased maintenance expenses such as more frequent filter changes and fuel system repairs.”
He added that generally, biodiesel carried a slightly lower energy density, which could affect fuel efficiency.
“The savings must be measured holistically, not just at the pump but across the entire lifecycle of the vehicle’s operation.
“Operators are looking for clearer technical guidance from the government and vehicle manufacturers regarding warranty coverage, maintenance requirements and long-term engine performance under B15 usage.”
