Keep RON95 subsidy in S'wak, DAP Youth says amid lack of transport options

Summary

• DAP Youth leader Wong King Yii argues that due to Sarawak’s poor public transport infrastructure, most residents rely on private vehicles, making RON95 subsidy cuts especially burdensome.

• He insists that subsidy rationalisation must reflect Sarawak’s unique conditions and that continuing fuel subsidies in the state is not special treatment but a necessity.

• Wong says Sarawak residents deserve continued fuel subsidies and urges federal consultation with the state before implementing reforms.

A Sarawak DAP Youth leader called for the federal government to take the state’s unique realities into account when it comes to the RON95 petrol subsidy rationalisation.

Sarawak DAP Youth treasurer Wong King Yii pointed at the state’s lack of public transport infrastructure, saying that owning a car is a necessity for those who live there.

“In places like the Klang Valley, the government has invested billions in the mass rapid transit, light rail transit, and other public transit systems.

“In contrast, Sarawak lacks even basic alternatives - there are no trains, and bus services are extremely limited.

“For most Sarawakians, owning a car is not a choice, but a necessity. This makes fuel price increases especially painful and unavoidable,” he explained in a statement today.

During the tabling of the Budget 2025 last year, Finance Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the government’s subsidy rationalisation programme for RON95 petrol will be implemented in mid-2025.

Anwar, who is also the prime minister, has dismissed concerns over the effect this exercise will have on the cost of living crisis, saying that it would not affect the majority of Malaysians.

He has justified the move as part of the government’s action to ensure that subsidies target those who need them, instead of benefiting the ultra-rich and foreigners.

The RON95 subsidy rationalisation follows a similar move for diesel in 2024.

No special treatment

In his statement, Wong said Sarawak’s status as an oil-producing state should also be taken into account.

“Our land and resources have contributed significantly to Malaysia’s petroleum industry.

“It is only reasonable that Sarawakians enjoy continued access to subsidised fuel as part of the returns from our contribution,” he asserted.

He called on the government to maintain the RON95 subsidy in Sarawak, denying that doing so would provide the state’s residents with special treatment.

“Any national policy must reflect regional differences. I urge the federal government to ensure that subsidy reform does not come at the expense of ordinary Sarawakians,” he stressed.

Wong also urged Putrajaya to discuss all policies on subsidy reforms with the Sarawak government and stakeholders.

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