KUALA LUMPUR, October 3 — The Budi Madani RON95 (Budi95) targeted subsidy scheme has seen rapid adoption, with almost three million Malaysians benefiting and fuel sales exceeding RM91 million within just four days of its nationwide rollout.
Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said two million users enjoyed the subsidised price of RM1.99 per litre as of yesterday evening, noting smooth implementation with minimal complaints despite heavier-than-usual traffic at petrol stations.
He added that discussions are underway with Sabah and Sarawak governments to extend the subsidy to boat owners, while flexibility is being granted to those with recently expired driving licences.
The initiative, launched on September 27 for armed forces and police personnel before expanding to over five million Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) recipients, now covers 16 million eligible Malaysians aged 16 and above with MyKad and valid licences.
Each individual is entitled to up to 300 litres of subsidised RON95 monthly, compared to the unsubsidised rate of RM2.60 per litre. Despite isolated disruptions such as a Wi-Fi glitch at a Petron station in Johor, fuel companies and enforcement agencies reported generally smooth operations, with the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry conducting random checks to ensure compliance.
