JOHOR BARU: The public is hoping that Budget 2027 will maintain the 300-litre monthly RON95 subsidised petrol quota while introducing more measures to ease the rising cost of living.
Trader Khalid Md Noor, 54, said the previous 200-litre limit was far from enough for many like him.
“When you run a business, you are bound to travel around a lot. So, the 200-litre quota was definitely not enough for me. Most of the time, I would run out in less than 20 days.
“I was very relieved when the government decided to increase it back to 300 litres. At least now, even in months when the quota is not enough, at most I only have to pay the unsubsidised price for two or three days.
“It made a huge difference, and I really hope the government will maintain that,” he said, adding that higher fuel costs would also push up prices throughout the supply chain.
Khalid also hopes Budget 2027 will provide some form of targeted assistance for small traders to reduce the cost of essential ingredients and other basic business needs.
“This will also benefit consumers because we will be able to sell our goods at more affordable prices,” he said.
Meanwhile, export officer K. Ganaeshwari, 32, said it is important for the RON95 subsidy to remain at 300 litres as petrol is a basic necessity.
“Petrol is not a luxury but a necessity for many working Malaysians. We need to drive to work, run errands and travel for family commitments.
“Even if someone does not use the full 300 litres, having the additional buffer gives us a peace of mind, especially during months when there is more travelling or unexpected commitments,” she said.
She also hopes Budget 2027 will introduce practical measures to ease the daily cost of living, particularly for middle income working Malaysians.
“I hope the government can continue targeted subsidies for essential needs, especially petrol, while making sure the assistance reaches those who genuinely need it.
“Middle income families also need more support because sometimes we are not eligible for many forms of assistance, but we still feel the impact of rising daily expenses,” she said.
Beautician Samly Soh, 51, also hopes the government will maintain the 300-litre monthly RON95 subsidised petrol quota, saying the previous 200-litre limit was insufficient.
“Usually, the quota would be used up within two or three weeks, but with 300 litres, it is just nice for me, and I believe many feel the same way.
“The increase to 300 litres has really helped a lot of people, and I think it is important for the quota to remain as we are all heavily dependent on petrol for our daily use,” she said, adding that she also hopes Budget 2027 will provide some form of relief for small businesses facing high rental costs.
Budget 2027 is expected to be tabled in Parliament on Oct 9.
