PUTRAJAYA, March 26 — The government is bearing fuel and diesel subsidies estimated at up to RM4 billion a month under the BUDI Madani RON95 (BUDI95) and BUDI Diesel schemes, following the rise in global crude oil prices.
The Finance Ministry (MOF) said in a statement today that the prolonged conflict in West Asia has exerted pressure on global energy markets, with crude oil prices now exceeding US$100 (RM399.40) per barrel, significantly increasing the country’s subsidy burden.
RON95 and diesel subsidies for January amounted to about RM700,000 million.
“With the Madani Government’s decision to maintain the BUDI95 price at RM1.99 per litre for the people and diesel at RM2.15 per litre for targeted groups, the subsidy burden continues to rise.
“Based on market prices two weeks ago, when Brent crude was around US$90 per barrel, petrol and diesel subsidies were estimated at RM3 billion per month.
“Now, with crude oil prices reaching US$100 per barrel, the subsidy bill is estimated to rise to around RM4 billion per month,” the statement said.
In a special address today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government would temporarily adjust the BUDI95 quota from 300 litres to 200 litres per month, effective April 1, amid the West Asia conflict.
He emphasised that the subsidised RON95 price will remain at RM1.99 per litre.
MOF said the Madani Government has taken early, targeted measures to ensure the country’s fuel supply remains secure amid global supply uncertainties due to the conflict.
“These proactive measures are implemented in a planned manner to manage current supply pressures without affecting the majority of consumers, while ensuring sufficient fuel supply for a longer period.
“Although the country’s fuel supply remains under control for now, the government cannot adopt a wait-and-see approach in strengthening supply security and managing demand prudently,” it said.
MOF said the adjustment to the BUDI95 eligibility cap is a temporary measure until global supply conditions stabilise.
“The adjustment takes into account that nearly 90 per cent of eligible users consume less than 200 litres per month and will not be affected, with average monthly consumption at around 100 litres.
“Meanwhile, the additional quota cap for e-hailing operators will remain at 800 litres per month,” it added.
According to MOF, the government will strengthen enforcement to curb misuse and leakages of subsidies, while encouraging more prudent fuel consumption.
“MOF will not hesitate to suspend BUDI95 eligibility in cases of abuse or misuse of subsidised RON95.
“The government will continue to closely monitor global developments and take further measures to ensure the country’s energy supply remains stable and sufficient for the people,” the ministry said.
