Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today asked the people to stop questioning the government's efforts to use the RM4.4 billion saved from fuel subsidies to improve the public transportation system.

He said the government vowed to use the money in the best possible manner to improve public transportation for the benefit of all Malaysians.

"I hope the public will not question the money saved....we will use it well and work towards improving public transport in all states.

"Let's see where the priority is, maybe the amount is not enough, let us see," the premier was quoted as saying by Bernama.

Public's cooperation

Speaking to reporters after a function in Penang, Abdullah said the government needs the public's cooperation to succeed in its efforts.

The government has approved the setting-up of the Public Transport Trust Fund (KWAPA) with the RM4.4 billion.

The fund will be used to finance projects to improve the quality of public transportation such as upgrading the integrated system of bus, light rail transit (LRT), monorail and commuter services.

The RM4.4 billion is the amount saved following the government's decision to increase fuel prices to 30 sen per litre and liquid petroleum gas (LPG) to 30 sen per kg.

The Feb 28 decision had ignited widespread protests, with numerous quarters questioning the sincerity of the government's claim that it would use the money to improve public transportation.

MAS, AirAsia must cooperate

In another development, Abdullah said the government wanted Malaysia Airlines (MAS) and AirAsia to form a smart partnership on deciding that MAS handles major domestic routes while AirAsia handles the low-cost routes.

"I am of the opinion that the decision at this stage will benefit both companies. The question of big or small profits depends on the companies' managerial abilities. The most important thing is, we don't want any problems," he added.

On the same note, he said both companies must explain and cooperate in defining which are major and non-major routes.