TRANSPORT Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook suggested that Malaysians could be asked to flash their MyKad for the purchase of RON95 but this idea did not sit well with some netizens.
On X, the discussion regarding targeted subsidies for petroleum in Malaysia is a highly controversial matter. Some is of the view that the country’s natural resources shouldn’t be so costly for the people, while others argue that increased economic spending (with petrol at a higher price) would benefit the nation.
Nevertheless, the targeted subsidy mechanism for RON95 petrol is still in the planning stage and is expected to be implemented by mid-next year.
Meanwhile, Loke mentioned that one proposal requires Malaysians to show their MyKad at petrol stations, and this would perhaps make it easier to spot foreigners who are not eligible for the subsidy.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that 85% of the population will not be burdened by the price increase of RON95 next year with the new targeted subsidy plan.
However, X users disagree with the idea of using targeted subsidies for petroleum.
Additionally, they feel that using our identity cards and other methods to set the prices for varying individuals will most definitely make things complicated. Some feel that there might be a cause for loopholes to occur.
From this, it sounds like gov is trying to implement a system where different people pay different prices at the pump.
I think that would be the worst of all possible implementation options – expensive, complicated, and full of loopholes.
You can’t outsmart the market. https://t.co/S8aSh0TbJK
— Thevesh (@Thevesh) October 19, 2024
One user believes the authorities should listen to others who have provided vastly better ideas, including using car number plates as the determinant of who gets cheaper petrol.
They also believe the price of fuel should be allowed to float and pay cash transfers to those who would really need assistance to cover up for the cost of higher RON95.
so many people have provided vastly better ideas including using number plates as the determinant. but the fundamental biggest answer is to simply float the price, and pay cash transfers to those who need it. I will also assist govt in data management.
— PenSword 🇲🇾🐉 (@BerniceWrites) October 19, 2024
Others shared their concerns regarding the workers in these petrol stations. There could possibly be a problem with this, as these workers may not be able to enforce this policy, especially if they are foreign workers.
Apa daya atendan2 pam minyak, yg pd hari ini rmai iala pkerja asing, nak kuatkuasa bila org tnjk IC bkn muka dia?
— ipohcmemalee (@ipohcmemalee) October 19, 2024
Regardless, social media users appear to be against this idea overall as they feel the prices should be the same for everyone. – Oct 19, 2024
