By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 8: The federal government has been urged to adopt a special approach to diesel purchase quotas in Sarawak, particularly in rural and interior areas that continue to depend on diesel-powered generators for electricity and boats as their primary mode of transportation.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said such consideration is necessary given Sarawak’s unique geographical landscape and the distinct challenges faced by communities in remote areas, which differ significantly from those in Peninsular Malaysia.
He stressed that the current diesel purchase limit should be reviewed, especially for residents who must travel long distances to obtain fuel supplies.
According to him, many rural residents incur substantial travel costs just to reach the nearest petrol station, yet are only permitted to purchase up to 100 litres of diesel per transaction.
“For example, in Bario, it can take up to 15 hours to reach the nearest petrol station. We need to take into account the realities faced by people in Sarawak.
“I hope special consideration can be given to assist those living under such circumstances,” he told reporters after chairing the Sarawak State Consumer Movement (GPN) meeting here today, as reported by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).
Awang Tengah said the matter warrants special consideration for Sarawak, particularly in communities that remain heavily reliant on diesel for daily living and economic activities.
Meanwhile, he said the meeting also reviewed consumer complaints received so far this year and discussed the necessary follow-up actions based on the reports.
Members were also briefed on inspection findings involving business premises and petrol stations, as well as updates on the National Consumer Policy 2.0 and the Subsidised Diesel Control System.
In a related development, Awang Tengah said GPN Sarawak would step up public awareness efforts to improve understanding of subsidy mechanisms, including application procedures and the process of obtaining available assistance.
“This is important because without proper explanation, the public may face difficulties understanding the facilities and assistance provided.
“Therefore, these efforts will continue to be strengthened because we want to educate, train and raise awareness among consumers about their rights,” he said.
He also emphasised that enforcement efforts would continue to be strengthened through close collaboration among relevant agencies, particularly in addressing leakages and other issues requiring immediate attention.
According to Awang Tengah, effective inter-agency coordination is crucial to enhancing enforcement efforts and ensuring that responsibility for curbing misconduct does not rest solely with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN). — DayakDaily
