By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 3: Only more than 26,000 of the 37,880 commercial vehicles eligible for the Subsidised Diesel Control System (SKDS) in Sarawak have registered under the scheme since its implementation on July 1.
Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sarawak director Matthew Dominic Barin said the ministry has also expanded SKDS eligibility to include company-owned private vehicles in the jeep and pickup categories, adding to the existing 23 vehicle categories covered under the scheme.
“In Sarawak, there are 37,880 vehicles eligible for SKDS, but only more than 26,000 have registered so far.
“We invite all eligible vehicle owners and companies to apply through KPDN offices or online via the MySubsidi portal and check their eligibility so they can enjoy the diesel subsidy provided,” he told reporters during a press conference at a Shell petrol station in Petra Jaya today.
Matthew said the implementation of SKDS, which began on July 1 alongside the Budi Diesel initiative, has generally proceeded smoothly.
“So far, there have not been many issues, apart from some confusion, but we have been providing extensive explanations,” he said.
Earlier in the day, he said KPDN had briefed Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Sri Lee Kim Shin on the implementation of SKDS and Budi Diesel.
Clarifying the scope of the scheme, Matthew stressed that SKDS is specifically meant for commercial vehicles and not private vehicle owners.
To encourage greater participation, he said KPDN has been conducting engagement sessions across the State, including in Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu, Miri and Limbang, involving transport associations, community leaders, village heads, government agencies and rural communities.
He added that registration counters have also been opened at all KPDN branch offices throughout Sarawak to assist eligible applicants.
“We invite anyone facing issues or requiring assistance to contact KPDN. We will do our best to help,” he said. — DayakDaily
