Tenom: The diesel subsidy rationalisation mechanism still has room for improvement to ensure that the assistance provided is truly effective in easing the burden on the people, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak.
Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the Government remains committed to ensuring that subsidy assistance reaches those who genuinely qualify, especially amid global oil price fluctuations influenced by geopolitical uncertainties.
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He said the Government must also take into account the unique geographical conditions of Sabah and Sarawak, as a large proportion of the population in both states still relies on diesel-powered vehicles.
According to Arthur, the Government’s intention in implementing the diesel subsidy rationalisation is a positive one, but the existing mechanism can still be improved to better meet the needs of the people in Sabah and Sarawak.
He said the views and feedback of the public would continue to be taken into consideration to ensure that the subsidy policy is more inclusive, practical and reflects the daily realities of people in both states.
Arthur expressed hope that improvements to the diesel subsidy mechanism could be implemented in stages so that the Government’s objective of assisting the people can be achieved without affecting the needs of users, particularly those who depend on diesel for work, business and daily transportation.
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He said this when met after the Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) membership form handover ceremony for the Melalap State Constituency (N.42) here on Saturday.
Arthur also stressed that the Government remains open to suggestions from all parties to strengthen the implementation of the subsidy policy, including ensuring that the mechanism adopted does not burden people in rural areas who depend on diesel for their economic activities and daily lives.
He said close cooperation between the Federal Government and the State Government is crucial in formulating a more comprehensive approach so that the benefits of the subsidy can be enjoyed fairly, while ensuring that the well-being of the people in Sabah and Sarawak continues to remain a priority.
