TOKYO, May 24 — The implementation of the targeted diesel subsidy is not to burden the people, but aimed at the rich and foreigners who have long benefited from the subsidy, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
He said diesel is not used by the majority of people, and those affected, such as taxi drivers, petty traders, and fishermen, are given exemptions and assistance to cover the cost hike.
“Why is he (opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin) busy opposing it? Who is he trying to defend? We have been stressing that the targeted subsidy is to prevent the rich and foreigners from enjoying it.
“Will Perikatan Nasional (PN) subsidise the rich and the foreigners (if they come to power)? Answer that first. That is what will upset the people,” Anwar said in response to Hamzah’s statement against the targeted subsidies, during the press conference with Malaysian media, to mark the end of his working visit to Japan today.
The Prime Minister said large companies are being monitored to curb the increase in the price of goods and services.
Recently, media reports said Hamzah claimed Anwar’s announcement on the implementation of the targeted diesel subsidies has caused public unease and failed to address the “elephant in the room” on when the subsidies would be removed.
Anwar said it was normal for the Prime Minister to announce the policy and the relevant minister to provide details and follow-up actions later.
“He (Hamzah) used to be a minister, why is he asking such questions? This procedure has been done since before independence,” said the Prime Minister.
On Tuesday, Anwar announced the Cabinet agreed to implement targeted diesel subsidies involving consumers in Peninsular Malaysia and it would involve 10 types of public transport vehicles and 23 types of goods transportation vehicles under the diesel subsidy control system.
He said the targeted subsidies would not involve consumers in Sabah and Sarawak as diesel is used in nearly every family’s vehicle in both states.
— Bernama
