KUALA LUMPUR – The government has to set aside at least RM40 billion annually to maintain fuel subsidies, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim saying Malaysians currently enjoy some of the lowest fuel prices globally.
He said subsidised RON95 petrol is priced at RM1.99 per litre, adding that the substantial allocation reflects the government’s commitment to keeping fuel affordable for the public.
“You pay RM1.99 (per litre for subsidised RON95 petrol). In one year, I have to find RM40 billion to cover the fuel (subsidy) expenses. That is why (the price of) fuel in Malaysia is among the lowest in the world.
“(Comparing Malaysia to others), Brunei is only slightly lower, but others like Saudi Arabia and Qatar (global oil-producing nations) all have higher (prices) than us,” he said.
He was speaking at the Malam Harapan programme at Pay Fong High School Hall here tonight.
Also present were Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and DAP national deputy chairman Nga Kor Ming.
Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman, said the decision to maintain fuel subsidies stemmed from the government’s responsibility towards the people who had entrusted the coalition with running the country.
“It is not because I am smart, but because the people stand together with us (PH). The people understand; they pay a low price (for fuel)… but they (the people) know this nation must be saved,” he said.
The Finance Minister also said the government continued to shoulder substantial financial liabilities arising from alleged misappropriation under previous administrations, with the burden ultimately falling on taxpayers across the country.
“(The case of) 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB)… when there is debt, who pays for it? Malays have to pay, Chinese have to pay, Indians have to pay, Sabah and Sarawak have to pay.
“Then there is Felda, belonging to the Malays. Every year, the government has to cover nearly RM1 billion (in Felda’s debt). Why? Because these people stole the money… Tabung Haji, RM10 billion went missing,” he said.
The Malam Harapan programme was among several engagements attended by Anwar in Melaka today as PH steps up its campaign for the 16th Melaka state election.
Polling is scheduled for Nov 14, while early voting will take place on Nov 10. – November 5, 2026