Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has instructed the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to immediately study the targeted diesel subsidy process, using the same mechanism as BUDI95.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil stated that MOF has been tasked with presenting details of the process either at the National Economic Action Council (MTEN) meeting next Tuesday or at the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday. The MADANI Government spokesperson mentioned that the government has started reviewing the most effective mechanism to transition from cash transfers to a BUDI95-style system for the distribution of the BUDI Diesel Individu subsidy.

Fahmi highlighted that the new process is anticipated to benefit Malaysians, particularly those driving pickup trucks, by being simpler, more efficient, and more effective, similar to the implementation of BUDI95. He made these remarks during a global energy crisis briefing and post-Cabinet press conference.

The government is taking firm measures to address issues such as diesel leakages, smuggling, and misappropriation by deploying security forces, including the Royal Malaysia Police, to over 150 petrol stations identified as high-risk in border areas. These efforts aim to curb smuggling and misappropriation activities nationwide.

During the MTEN meeting, concerns were raised over a particular petrol station recording fuel sales significantly higher than other stations nationwide, despite having a low surrounding population. Fahmi also noted that the government is exploring different mechanisms for targeted diesel subsidies for the fisheries sector, with further discussions planned with the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM).

For the fisheries sector, the Agriculture and Food Security Minister is studying a slightly different mechanism, subject to further discussions with LKIM. Detailed discussions and reports are expected at next week's MTEN meeting, pending the acquisition of all necessary information.