PUTRAJAYA, June 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has asserted that the government’s decision to implement targeted diesel subsidies is crucial for the country’s economic stability. Speaking at a monthly assembly with staff of the Prime Minister’s Department, Anwar acknowledged the unpopularity of the measure but emphasized its necessity.
Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, stated that previous prime ministers had agreed on the need for targeted subsidies but lacked the political will to implement them due to the associated risks. He highlighted the importance of taking decisive action to prevent wastage and ensure subsidies reach the intended beneficiaries. The government announced that the price of diesel at retail stations in Peninsular Malaysia is now set at RM3.35 per litre, a move expected to save RM4 billion annually and strengthen the nation’s financial position. This subsidy rationalisation will not affect consumers in Sabah and Sarawak.
