RON95 petrol subsidy not to be implemented in the near future – PM
THE policy paper for the rationalization of subsidies for RON95 petrol has not yet been brought to the cabinet for implementation. This was stated by the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He mentioned that the re-targeting of subsidies for this purpose would not be implemented in the near future.
“There is no policy paper that can lead us to implement it (the rationalization of RON95 subsidies) quickly. There have been studies all along, but we think it’s better to first observe the steps taken regarding electricity and diesel subsidies,” he said in the Parliament yesterday.
He responded to an additional question from Ahmad Fadhli Shaari (PN-Pasir Mas) who wanted to know if the government intended to implement the re-targeting of RON95 petrol subsidies.
Anwar, however, stated that in his opinion, the re-targeting of RON95 petrol subsidies should have been implemented long ago, but he was aware of various constraints that made it difficult to reinstate the subsidies for the fuel.
“If you ask me, re-targeting RON95 subsidies should have been done a long time ago. But this is not easy, as the problem we face is that 3.8 million foreigners are using this oil, just as the wealthy are. This is something that is crucial and important for us to halt,” he added.
He also criticized the opposition’s statement for continuously “manipulating” the issue of re-targeting diesel subsidies, claiming that it burdens the people.
“Until now, there are still those who are ‘riding’ on the issue with various accusations of the government being oppressive and claiming that subsidies have been completely withdrawn.
“Is the re-targeting of these subsidies a wise decision for the economy? All (Members of Parliament) agree, even though they expressed disagreement during the campaign.
“When (the previous government) was in power, they also said that (re-targeting diesel subsidies) was necessary, but because they knew it would heat up the political temperature (it was not implemented).
“However, I acknowledge that the implementation aspect can be disputed. I accept this, but what we are hearing now is only the accusation of an oppressive government, cutting subsidies and repeating the campaign (in the past), today in power, tomorrow oil prices will drop,” he said.
