Budi95 fuel cap highlights need for public transport options in Sarawak, says Kuching South Mayor

KUCHING (March 28): The government’s move to cap subsidised Budi95 petrol at 200 litres per month highlights the need for practical solutions to ease the impact of rising fuel costs in Sarawak, said Datuk Wee Hong Seng.

The Kuching South mayor said viable public transport options should be explored to reduce reliance on fuel, especially amid uncertainties in global oil supply.

“On public transport, we need to find a solution. I trust our leaders and the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg that we will find a way forward and how we are going to counter this.

“I am sure there are many options we can consider. It is not too late. I think this is a lesson to learn. When we are affected, I hope that one day we will be able to have alternatives and not depend on supplies from others.

“Every time there is a sudden disruption or unexpected things happen, it will affect us badly (if we continue to rely on others),” he told reporters after officiating the Earth Hour programme at Friendship Park here.

Wee also urged Sarawakians to remain united and place trust in the state leadership.

“As Sarawakians, we need to build trust and confidence towards this stable government so that we can put all our effort into finding solutions instead of attacking each other. With strong leadership under the Premier, we will be able to overcome this,” he said.

Highlighting Sarawak’s geographical challenges, he noted that policies must take into account the differences between the state and Peninsular Malaysia.

“We have contributed so much and there should be reconsideration. For example, the cost of freight from the Peninsula is already high and this adds to our overall cost of living.

“If other things are going to add up to our living cost, it will become a double (burden for the people). This must be looked into properly. We are not asking for more, but for fairness,” he said.

At the same time, Wee stressed the importance of unity among Sarawakians to strengthen their collective voice.

“We should stay united so that others will view us differently. Then it will not be easy for people to divide us,” he said.

Following the Earth Hour launch, Wee also highlighted Sarawak’s collective effort in raising environmental awareness through the initiative.

“Starting with Sibu Municipal Council, Kuching South City Council and Sri Aman District Council, Sarawak is the only state combining city and district councils in a joint effort to raise awareness. The results on how much we have saved, we will tell later.

“This is about effort and awareness. By saving energy, you are also saving money because you pay for electricity. Switch off the lights when they are not needed. A small step can mean a lot when everyone comes together,” he said.