Kuala lumpur: Over 11 million Malaysians have benefited from the Budi Madani targeted subsidy system for RON95 petrol, known as BUDI95, according to the Ministry of Finance (MoF). As of October 13, 2025, these beneficiaries enjoy a reduced petrol price of RM1.99 per litre.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Ministry of Finance has emphasized that the eligibility list for BUDI95 recipients is regularly updated to ensure comprehensive coverage of eligible Malaysians. The ministry is aware of the challenges faced by residents who lack e-wallet access or live in areas with limited internet connectivity. To address these issues, various methods of eligibility verification and payment have been implemented. These include physical verification through MyKad terminals and cash payments at petrol station counters, promoting regional fairness and inclusivity.

The ministry’s response came as an answer to Riduan Rubin (Independent-Tenom), who raised concerns regarding the reliance on the Central Database Hub (PADU) for determining RON95 petrol subsidies, especially in Sabah where digital disparities, poor internet connectivity, and data update delays pose significant hurdles.

The MoF also highlighted that the government is addressing the needs of the residents in Sabah and Sarawak who depend on petrol-powered boats for transportation but do not hold driving licenses. Through collaboration with state governments, a list of such boat users has been compiled. This ensures they also receive a monthly quota of 300 litres under the BUDI95 programme. By early October 2025, over 23,000 boat users without driving licenses, as well as fishermen, have been approved as recipients.