Post by : Rohit Dhiman

Umno president and Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has taken an indirect but pointed swipe at Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim over the government's decision to restore the monthly subsidised petrol quota under the BUDI95 programme. Speaking at the Umno general assembly in Kuala Lumpur, Zahid criticised what he described as a reversal in government policy. He questioned why the monthly limit for subsidised RON95 petrol had first been reduced and was later increased again. Zahid suggested that the decision to restore the higher quota came at a politically sensitive time, particularly with elections approaching. He made the remarks during his opening speech at the Umno general assembly, where he addressed party members and touched on the government's approach to issues affecting ordinary Malaysians.

BUDI95 Quota Was Cut From 300 to 200 Litres

Under the BUDI95 programme, the government reduced the monthly subsidised petrol quota from 300 litres to 200 litres in April. The reduction was introduced as a temporary measure at a time when global crude oil prices were elevated and supply chains were facing disruption because of the conflict in West Asia. The lower limit was intended to help manage fuel supplies and government spending during a period of uncertainty in global energy markets. However, the reduction also attracted attention because petrol prices and fuel subsidies remain highly sensitive issues for Malaysian households, businesses and motorists.

Government Restores 300-Litre Limit

The government subsequently restored the monthly RON95 quota to 300 litres, with the new limit taking effect on September 1. Zahid referred to the reversal in his speech and questioned the reasoning behind reducing the allowance earlier in the year before restoring it several months later. His comments effectively placed the government's fuel policy under renewed political scrutiny, particularly as the country moves closer to a period of heightened political activity.

Zahid Links Policy Change to Election Timing

Zahid's remarks were particularly pointed when he suggested that the restoration of the quota was influenced by the approaching elections. He questioned who was responsible for the decision and used the phrase "Guru" while calling for the government to listen to the people. Although he did not directly name Anwar in the quoted remarks, his comments were widely understood as a veiled criticism of the prime minister and the government's handling of the policy. The remarks also highlight the political sensitivity surrounding decisions that affect the cost of living and access to subsidised fuel.

Anwar Announces Higher Diesel Quota

Alongside the restoration of the petrol allowance, Anwar announced another change involving subsidised fuel. The monthly quota under the BUDI Diesel programme was increased from 300 litres to 400 litres. The move means eligible recipients of subsidised diesel would have access to a larger monthly allocation, while the government continues to manage its broader fuel subsidy policies. The changes to both petrol and diesel allowances are likely to remain important issues in Malaysia's wider debate over targeted subsidies and government spending.

Why RON95 Subsidies Matter in Malaysia

The RON95 petrol subsidy system is closely watched because the fuel is widely used by Malaysian motorists. Changes to the monthly allowance can affect household transportation costs and the operating expenses of businesses that depend heavily on road travel. The government has been attempting to balance fiscal management with the need to protect consumers from sudden increases in living costs. At the same time, political parties have increasingly focused on how subsidy decisions affect ordinary Malaysians.

Why Was the RON95 Quota Reduced?

The monthly subsidised petrol allowance was reduced from 300 litres to 200 litres in April as a temporary measure. The government cited higher global crude prices and supply chain disruptions associated with the West Asia conflict as factors behind the decision.

When Was the RON95 Quota Restored?

The government restored the monthly subsidised petrol allowance to 300 litres effective September 1.

What Did Ahmad Zahid Say About the Change?

Ahmad Zahid criticised the reversal, arguing that the quota had first been reduced and later restored when elections were approaching. He questioned the timing and called on the government to listen to public concerns.

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Where Were Zahid's Remarks Made?

Ahmad Zahid made the remarks in Kuala Lumpur while delivering his opening speech at the Umno general assembly.

What Is the Current RON95 Quota?

The monthly subsidised RON95 allocation under BUDI95 was restored to 300 litres from September 1, after having been temporarily reduced to 200 litres in April.

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