KUALA LUMPUR – The public should wait for an official announcement from the government regarding fuel rationalisation plans, said Fuziah Salleh as she dismissed a news report published by a foreign newspaper yesterday.
The deputy domestic trade and cost of living minister told Scoop reports that the government will cut fuel subsidies next month are baseless as the government has yet to issue any statements notifying the public.
“As long as the government has yet to make an announcement, this (sources-based news reports) is considered preceding the government. There’s no need to do that as the public could panic over baseless (claims).
“Just wait for our announcement. I’m sure that the government will ensure that the public is not burdened if a targeted fuel subsidy mechanism is implemented in the future.”
Yesterday, Singapore’s Straits Times reported that Malaysia intends to begin slashing fuel subsidies next month, with diesel prices to be floated in line with market rates first before the retail prices of petrol are increased in stages.
Citing sources, the report claimed that the move will be implemented a few weeks after the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election on May 11.
Meanwhile, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the issue was not brought up for discussion during previous cabinet meetings, including those held last week.
He added that while some foreign newspapers have “put the cart before the horse”, all parties, including the media, should get their information from official sources which can be verified or identified.
Last month, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli told Bloomberg that the plan to remove blanket fuel subsidies this year was on track, as part of its efforts to ensure that such subsidies aid the needy instead of higher-income groups. – May 4, 2024