Finance ministry to table targeted diesel subsidy report, says Fahmi

The government spokesman says the report will be presented to either the National Economic Action Council or the Cabinet within the coming week for further deliberation.

Fahmi said the report is likely to be tabled to either the National Economic Action Council or the Cabinet within the coming week for further deliberation.

“Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has ordered the finance ministry to urgently review the process of targeting diesel subsidies using mechanisms similar to those implemented under Budi Madani,” he said at a weekly press conference.

Finance minister II Amir Hamzah Azizan was previously reported as saying the government is exploring the possibility of expanding the use of MyKad for targeted diesel subsidies, following the rollout of the BUDI95 scheme for RON95 petrol.

He said his ministry, together with the domestic trade and cost of living ministry, was reviewing the matter, and any transition to such a system would need a detailed study to prevent disruptions and logistical challenges.

In a separate development, Fahmi said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has identified 441 pieces of fake content related to the global energy crisis circulating on social media since March 29.

Of these, the communications minister said 54 investigation papers have been opened, with 12 already referred to the Attorney-General’s Chambers for further action.

“The remaining 42 investigation papers are still ongoing. Fake graphics using Sinar Harian’s format relating to fuel price announcements have also been circulated,” he said, stressing that fuel prices are only officially announced every Wednesday.

On biodiesel, Fahmi said the planned increase in blending from B10 to B15 would not incur additional costs to the government as existing infrastructure would be used.

He added that the Cabinet had been informed by plantation and commodities minister Noraini Ahmad that B20 biodiesel infrastructure is already in place across Sarawak, except in Bintulu, Labuan and Langkawi.

“Economy minister Akmal Nasrullah Nasir will conduct a site visit on Saturday to inspect raw materials for biodiesel blending purposes,” he said.