By Christopher Lidom and Chris Bishop
KUCHING, June 22: Sarawak and Sabah were temporarily exempted from the rationalisation of diesel subsidies due to the different situations in both States.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it was not because of insistence and demands. He elaborated that in both regions, the amount of diesel vehicle usage is higher than in Peninsular Malaysia.
“Although I have been criticised by members of Parliaments in Peninsular Malaysia, who questioned why Sarawak and Sabah were exempted, I would like to welcome them to visit (both regions) so that they will understand.
“I exempted (Sarawak and Sabah) not because of demands; in fact, I did not have time to discuss this with the Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg (about the matter),” he said during Sarawak Gawai Dayak 2024 gala dinner at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) streamed live via the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) Facebook page tonight.
According to Anwar, although the rationalisation of diesel subsidies has been implemented in Peninsular Malaysia, those working as school bus operators, fishermen, farmers, and even small business operators still benefit.
He said through the rationalisation of diesel subsidies, the government also managed to save RM4.5 billion.
“All this while, the subsidies given by the government, which are supposed to benefit the B40 and M40 groups, are being enjoyed by those who are rich too, including over 3.5 million foreigners who do not pay tax.
“I think if this policy continues, it does not show our ingenuity in managing the economy. So now, if we are giving out subsidies, it will only benefit the B40 and M40 groups consisting of 85 per cent of Malaysians,” he added. — DayakDaily
