Kuala lumpur: The server system for the BUDI MADANI RON95 (BUDI95) petrol subsidy initiative can process 30,000 transactions per minute, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced. Anwar, who also serves as the Finance Minister, emphasized the enhanced server capacity to prevent technical disruptions experienced during the earlier Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) aid program.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar discussed the improvements in the server system during the Finance Ministry's monthly assembly. He noted that the previous SARA program was designed for a smaller group, handling only 3,000 transactions per minute. In contrast, the BUDI95 system's server capacity allows it to manage over 30,000 transactions per minute, ten times the capability of SARA.
Anwar explained that the RON95 targeted subsidy is part of the MADANI government's approach to addressing issues like leakage and smuggling of RON95, while ensuring public welfare. On September 22, Anwar announced a reduction in the price of RON95 petrol to RM1.99 per litre from the previous RM2.05 per litre, effective September 30, under the BUDI95 scheme.
All Malaysian citizens with a valid driver's licence are eligible for the subsidy. Based on data from the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and the National Registration Department (JPN), over 16 million people are expected to qualify for the subsidy.
The Prime Minister also addressed concerns regarding the requirement to use an identity card when purchasing petrol, dismissing claims of inconvenience. He stated that the BUDI95 initiative is intended to benefit most Malaysians by offering among the lowest petrol prices in the region.
Anwar elaborated that the initiative ensures only Malaysian citizens benefit, preventing foreign nationals from accessing subsidised fuel prices. He clarified that foreigners residing in Malaysia would still enjoy a relatively low price of RM2.60 if they have registered Malaysian vehicles, but would not receive the full subsidy.
Moreover, Anwar urged the public not to panic or rush when the BUDI95 system comes into effect on September 30. Security forces, including around 300,000 police and military personnel, will begin enjoying the RM1.99 per litre price for RON95 starting September 27. Recipients of the Rahmah Cash Assistance (STR) will have access to the subsidised fuel from September 28, followed by approximately 16 million Malaysians aged 16 and above holding a MyKad and an active driver's licence on September 30.
The public is encouraged to verify their eligibility for the subsidised RON95 price on the www.budimadani.gov.my portal or by calling the helpline at 1300-88-9595 for any inquiries.