Kuala lumpur: The government's decision to temporarily adjust the eligibility criteria for the Budi MADANI RON95 (BUDI95) programme is regarded as a practical measure that continues to address the needs of most private vehicle users in the nation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sabah and Labuan Chinese Chamber of Commerce deputy secretary Weal Cheoh highlighted that despite the temporary reduction in the quota from 300 to 200 litres per month, the government's choice to uphold subsidies amid increasing global oil prices demonstrates its ongoing dedication to protecting public welfare. In Malaysia, most private vehicles have engine capacities below 2,000 cc and typically use around 200 litres per month, which suffices for standard usage. Cheoh emphasized the importance of understanding subsidy policies beyond the aspect of reduced benefits, appreciating the government's efforts to maintain fuel subsidies compared to other countries.
Cheoh also mentioned that attention should be given to the impact on certain groups to ensure that the sustainability of small businesses remains unaffected following the temporary adjustment to BUDI95. Meanwhile, United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) Putatan Division chief, Datuk Dr. Marcus Mojigoh, noted that every government decision, including the BUDI95 adjustment, is made with careful consideration. He encouraged the public to adopt a balanced and rational approach when evaluating government policies, considering them in a broader context.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced in a special message that the government will implement a temporary adjustment to BUDI95 eligibility, reducing it from 300 litres per month to 200 litres per month, effective April 1, 2026, due to the conflict in West Asia. Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, assured that the subsidised RON95 price remains at RM1.99 per litre. He stated that the adjustment is temporary until the oil market and supply, as well as the global economy, stabilize, though he acknowledged the current lack of clear signs of recovery.