Kuala lumpur: The government will obtain further information and hold discussions with oil companies over claims that petrol station operators incurred losses during the transition to the enhanced fuel subsidy mechanism previously, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The Prime Minister emphasized the cooperation of oil companies and petrol station operators in ensuring the successful implementation of the targeted RON95 petrol and diesel subsidy programme.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stated his intention to involve the Second Finance Minister, Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, in obtaining further details and holding discussions with the oil companies. He highlighted the full cooperation received from these stakeholders, which was crucial for the effective implementation of the targeted RON95 petrol and diesel subsidies. Anwar expressed hope for addressing any shortcomings through discussions and reaching a satisfactory solution.

Anwar addressed the matter during the Minister's Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat in response to a supplementary question from Howard Lee Chuan How (PH-Ipoh Timur). Lee raised concerns regarding claims of petrol station operators allegedly experiencing losses ranging from RM40,000 to RM50,000 during the transition period of subsidized fuel prices.

Additionally, Anwar mentioned the government's cautious approach in implementing diesel subsidy reforms, particularly considering the complexities in Sabah and Sarawak compared to Peninsular Malaysia. Factors such as higher diesel consumption, distance in rural areas, and fewer petrol stations required detailed evaluation before introducing any new policy.

Furthermore, Anwar highlighted improvements to the BUDI MADANI Diesel programme (BUDI Diesel), which now allows owners of diesel-powered pickup trucks and jeeps to apply for an additional 100-litre subsidised quota. This adjustment increases their total monthly entitlement to 300 litres, with approximately 200,000 citizens already approved for the additional quota as of yesterday.