Kuala lumpur: The government is contemplating a reduction in road tax rates for diesel vehicles to alleviate the public's financial burden following the recent hike in diesel prices.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that he has instructed the Transport Ministry (MoT) to find an appropriate mechanism to implement this road tax reduction. The move aims to mitigate the impact of increased diesel prices on users, particularly those sectors still heavily reliant on diesel vehicles. Anwar noted that while reducing fuel prices is currently unfeasible, lowering road tax could benefit the approximately 1.8 million diesel vehicle owners in Malaysia affected by the price surge.
During his speech at the 80th anniversary celebration of the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and the JPJ MADANI Mega Carnival held at the State Stadium grounds, Anwar emphasized this potential policy shift. The event was also attended by notable figures such as Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abdul Bakar, and JPJ director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, reassured that the government would maintain its targeted subsidy policy for RON95 petrol under the BUDI MADANI (BUDI95) programme, with current fuel subsidies reaching approximately RM7 billion monthly. He highlighted that the government's focus extends beyond fuel prices to ensuring sufficient supply amid global uncertainties.
In addressing international relations, the prime minister reiterated Malaysia's commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic ties with all countries to protect its economic interests amidst global challenges. He pointed out that Malaysia's independent foreign policy enables cooperation with major global powers, including the United States, China, and Middle Eastern nations, despite ongoing regional conflicts.
Anwar underscored that Malaysia refrains from military involvements that could jeopardize international relations. However, the country will voice concerns over serious injustices, such as when countries like Israel conduct military actions against civilian infrastructures like schools. He added that robust diplomatic relationships assist Malaysia in navigating international conflicts, particularly in the Middle East, ensuring the smooth transit of the nation's oil tankers through strategic routes like the Strait of Hormuz.