Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has firmly rejected any move to increase fuel prices, emphasizing the government's commitment to bearing the financial burden of fuel subsidies amid a global supply crisis.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stated that the government would continue to allocate substantial funds each month to subsidize fuel costs, aiming to shield citizens from financial strain. He highlighted the significant monthly expenses incurred, noting fluctuations in the subsidy amounts. Anwar explained that at times, the government has spent RM5 billion, RM3 billion, or even as much as RM7 billion monthly, with the current expenditure standing at RM4 billion.

Anwar elaborated on the government's financial strategy, indicating that a total of RM30 billion could be spent over a ten-month period to maintain the subsidies. He assured that these costs could be managed through austerity measures and by curbing the leakage of national funds, rather than resorting to loans or incurring national debt.

The Prime Minister dismissed suggestions from certain quarters to finance the subsidies through debt, stressing the long-term consequences such actions could have on future generations. He maintained that the government would continue to find viable solutions without increasing national debt.

Anwar's approach has allowed Malaysia to maintain one of the world's lowest oil prices, with RON95 petrol priced at RM1.99 per litre. In addition to addressing fuel prices, Anwar announced a RM2 million allocation for the construction of the Padang Awam Multipurpose Hall in Taman Keladi during the launch of the MADANI Rakan Muda Programme.

The event was attended by key government figures, including Youth and Sports Minister Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.