RON95 Subsidy Update: Less Fuel Smuggling Thanks to Budi95?

Salam riders! Been feeling the pinch at the petrol pump lately? Well, here's some news that might ease your wallet a little. According to Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, RON95 smuggling cases have seen a drop since the Budi95 targeted subsidy program was rolled out.

The Minister's office reports a significant decrease in RON95 misappropriation since Budi95 was introduced. It seems like targeting subsidies is actually working, guys!

The Numbers Don't Lie: Seizures are Down

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Before Budi95 (Aug 31 - Sept 29), authorities seized about 32,229 litres of RON95 in 71 cases. But after the program started (Sept 30 - Oct 29), those numbers went down to 17,724 litres in 61 cases. That's a considerable drop!

“Enforcement has been intensified under the Control of Supplies Act through Op Tiris, which has been ongoing since March 2023,” said Datuk Armizan in Parliament.

Op Tiris 3.0: Cracking Down on Fuel Misuse

Seems like the authorities are serious about this. Under Op Tiris 3.0, from January 2024 to Oct 29, they've done over 84,000 inspections! These efforts led to 1,690 cases of RON95 misappropriation, with total confiscations valued at RM1.6 million. Jangan main-main!

What About Border Riders?

Now, some of you might be wondering about our biker brothers and sisters in border states. There were concerns that some riders who've maxed out their 300-litre RON95 quota might be involved in dodgy dealings. Datuk Armizan assured that this is being monitored closely, with purchasing and usage data analysis from Nadi (National Information Dissemination Centre).

Budi95: What's the Deal?

Just a quick reminder, Budi95 allows Malaysians aged 16+ with a MyKad and a valid driving license to buy RON95 at RM1.99 per litre, up to 300 litres per month. Make sure you register if you're eligible!

MyCC is on the Case Too!

On a separate note, Datuk Armizan also addressed claims that the Malaysia Competition Commission (MyCC) only tackles minor or high-profile cases. He highlighted that MyCC has been actively going after price-fixing cartels in various sectors, from flower sellers in Cameron Highlands to ice manufacturers and even chicken feed producers. Apparently, these actions have resulted in fines totaling RM550.13 million. Not bad, MyCC!