RM200 enough to offset higher diesel price for most users - MOF

Putrajaya believes that the RM200 monthly cash assistance for diesel vehicle owners will be enough to offset their higher fuel expenditure when diesel prices are floated in Peninsular Malaysia starting tomorrow.

In a press conference in Putrajaya earlier this evening, Finance Minister II Amir Hamzah Azizan said the amount was set based on data provided by the Statistics Department.

However, he said, the government is ready to listen to appeals from those who feel that the amount is not enough to cover the differences for their monthly use.

“If we look at the RM200 allocated to each individual, (the amount) was based on data collected by the Statistics Department.

“Based on the data, we found that the RM200 would be able to cover the (monthly diesel use) of 80 percent of owners, more or less.

“(Basically), 80 percent of the people will not be worse off,” Amir added.

Earlier, Amir announced that the government will start floating diesel prices across Peninsular Malaysia beginning 12.01am Monday.

The decision was made to lessen the amount of subsidy leakages due to diesel smuggling activities, he said.

Aid aimed at personal car owners

According to the minister, the price will be floated to RM3.35 per litre starting tomorrow based on the current unsubsidised market price.

On the same day, Putrajaya will also effect an RM200 cash transfer to some 30,000 eligible owners of diesel vehicles under the Budi Madani initiative.

Amir said Budi Madani is aimed at helping personal car users and those who use their personal vehicles to conduct small businesses, such as night market operators.

“We hope that (the RM200 amount) will be enough, because diesel vehicles have a bit higher mileage (compared to petrol).

“But, in case there is any issue and the owners feel the need to file an appeal, they can do so,” he said.

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