Sarawak Barisan Nasional elected representatives are apparently planing to make a 'special plea' for assistance to the federal government to soften the impact of the recent fuel hike.

Malaysiakini was told today that the reps would highlight the 'frustrations and concerns' of 2.5 mil Sarawakians, the majority of whom are from the lower income group.

The move would be made during a special meeting tomorrow with Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in Kuala Lumpur, where the reps are expected to suggest ways for the premier to resolve the plight of Sarawakians.

It is believed that tomorrow, Abdullah and his deputy Najib Tun Razak will brief the ruling coalition's elected representatives throughout the country on the rationale behind the government's decision to fuel subsidies.

Several economist contacted by malaysiakini believed that the impact of the 30 sen hike since March 1 for petrol, diesel and natural gas would lead to greater inflation in the long term.

For example, Kuching coffee-shop operators have already announced that they will increase prices of drink on March 19 by about 15 percent. A cup of 'Kopi-O' is expected to cost between 10 to 20 sen more.

"The fuel price increases will have a spiraling effect, and it is not difficult to understand when you consider petrol and diesel is a necessity in life, particularly in transportation in sparsely populated Sarawak," said an economist who requested anonymity.

Supp to protest

Leading the chorus of criticism over the fuel hike is the Chinese-based Sarawak United People's Party (Supp). Its youth wing leader Alan Sim said that impending inflationary effects will result in hardship especially among fixed income earners.

According to the Borneo Post today, Sim said that he would appeal for part of the RM 4.4 bil saving derived from the government reduction in fuel subsidies to be used to improve the public transport system in Sarawak.

Sim, who is also political secretary to Chief Minister Abdul Taib Mahmud, said that there is a need to pay special attention to Sarawak's public transport system as it is in a 'sorry state'.

He also called on the government to waive import duties on buses, taxis and spare parts required for maintenance of such vehicles.

Joining the fray is Supp state assemblyperson for Padungan Lily Yong who described the latest price increases as excessive and would inevitably have a negative effect on low income earners.