PETALING JAYA: The diesel subsidy rationalisation was a surprise to many who now want the government to its ensure smooth implementation.
Describing news of the diesel rationalisation as shocking, cafe owner Mirwan Badri said this was a “wake-up call” for all Malaysians.
“If the government had studied (the benefits) for Malaysians in the long term and feels it is for the best, everyone needs to get used to it. The government has been helping us a lot, maybe it’s time for us to wake up and live the reality,” the owner of Sprezza Coffee said.
Mirwan said it is too early to comment whether the rationalisation would affect his business in terms of pricing.
However, he said if the supplier decides to introduce higher prices, it would lead to a domino effect along the chain.“We will wait and see how our suppliers react to this, if they increase their charges, we will also be forced to increase (the selling price),” he said, adding that if it happens, consumers may stop coming.
Business owner Hamen Ganesan agreed, adding that the move to lift the blanket subsidy happened “all of a sudden” and would have implications on the economic sector that relies on logistics.
He said the Subsidised Diesel Regulation System Pilot Project (SKDS) must be implemented well with proper procedures to apply for the fleet card in place for the business owners (who rely on) lorries and trucks.
Construction lorry driver Hanifah Ali said he was afraid that the rakyat will be burdened with higher prices for diesel.
“Usually a full tank of diesel (for the lorry) would only cost me RM80. Now it is RM120.
“This would affect the business operators and eventually consumers,” he said.
On social media, the comment section of stories on the floating of diesel subsidies was buzzing.
One user pointed out that diesel prices in Malaysia were lower than other South-East Asian countries.
“The RM3.35 price per litre is still lower than neighbouring countries. But tax for cars should be down as well as an appropriate follow-up move,” said user Leong SK.
Another user called for the money saved through the diesel subsidy rationalisation to be used to improve public transport.
“When public transport becomes more reliable, then slash petrol subsidies as well because Malaysia needs to reduce its carbon footprint,” said the user who went by the handle @Irvinz.
A user @sirsazly said he used a diesel-powered vehicle and agreed with the move to float prices, while carrying out targeted subsidies.
“Those making noise about it may not even be using diesel.
“However, we will continue monitoring so no one takes the opportunity to increase prices of goods,” he said through a post on X.
