The fuel price hike that came into effect on June 6 is not something that was unexpected but the quantum of increase and the abrupt way it was implemented caught all Malaysians by surprise. There was no space given for the people to prepare for this sudden increase in their expenditure. I

It has suddenly thrust a huge burden especially on those from the lower-income group who are already finding hard to make ends meet. While the increase may be inevitable, why was no warning given? It looks like the government refuses to appreciate the plight of the people at large and keeps making the same mistake over and over again.

Most Malaysians accept the fact that the fuel subsidies cannot continue forever and it has to stop some time but it would only be fair for the people to be given ample time to adjust their lifestyles to the price hike. Is that asking too much? It is unfortunate that instead of gradually reducing the subsidy, the government has chosen the 'cold-turkey' treatment which will be more painful to the people.

The people would be more receptive to accommodate fuel price hike if the government illustrates its willingness to channel the money saved from the subsidies for greater long-term benefits. It has promised better public transport the last time fuel prices were raised but till today we are yet to see any tangible improvements in the service.

It has failed to appreciate the urgency to improve the public transport system which is in a deplorable condition. In fact our public transport system is disorganised, unreliable and in a state of utter chaos.

There is a need for greater accountability and transparency in the management of the money saved from abolishing the fuel subsidies. The people need to see that the government is serious in channeling the money for the right purposes as past experience has shown that the money is actually channeled elsewhere for the benefit of a selected and privileged few.

Unfortunately, a lot of promises have been made but the implementation is far from satisfactory.
It is not just the fuel hike per say that is the problem. The other services, too, have become too costly for the vast majority of the rakyat.

The government should also start spending the extra money on improving, not privatising, other essential services such as the healthcare, education and housing especially for the poor. These basic public amenities and services must not only be of acceptable quality but at the same time be made more affordable to the ordinary rakyat.

Privatisation has failed to provide affordable services for the people and has only aggravated the cost of these services.  

It is also timely for the government to review subsidies in all other areas. Greater emphasis must be given to increasing productivity and reducing wastage by fighting corruption rather than increasing subsidies.

If we are to successfully compete in the globalised world, we must get rid of our subsidy mentally as it is would only reduce our competitiveness in the international market.  

There is a need for the government to overhaul its financial management of the country by implementing an agenda that is tailored to the overall welfare of the people. It should practice transparency, accountability and prudence in its spending and be serious in fighting corruption, wastage and mismanagement at all levels of the administration.

Only by doing so it will be able to create a more equitable and dynamic society for all.