Kuala lumpur: The government is currently able to sustain the subsidy for RON95 petrol but is ready to modify its policy if the costs escalate due to the ongoing crisis in West Asia. Political secretary to the Finance Minister, Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim, emphasized the importance of being prepared to maintain economic stability while ensuring public welfare is not overlooked.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Muhammad Kamil highlighted that the subsidy remains in place for now, but adaptability is essential to withstand potential cost increases. He stressed that no country can maintain the same economic approach indefinitely under rising costs and that policy adjustments are necessary to ensure economic stability without compromising the welfare of the population.

He attributed Malaysia's current ability to sustain the subsidy to prior cost-saving measures and subsidy restructuring. The monthly subsidy cost has notably increased from RM700 million to RM4 billion. Despite higher global oil prices boosting Petronas' profits, Malaysia still imports oil to satisfy domestic demand, meaning not all profits can be allocated to subsidize fuel prices. Dividends from Petronas are limited and are primarily used to support fuel pricing and operational needs.

Muhammad Kamil also supported the Prime Minister's proposal for a special briefing for opposition leaders to discuss the West Asia crisis. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced plans to gather top state leaders and political party representatives for this briefing next week.