Sarawak’s diesel drought eased as PETRONAS mobilises extra 1.5 million litres

KPDN Miri officers inspecting diesel supply delivery at a PETRONAS station on Dec 29, 2023. Photo credit: KPDN Sarawak Facebook

KUCHING, Dec 30: Sarawak received an additional 1.5 million litres of subsidised diesel yesterday to address the fuel shortage that affected multiple PETRONAS petrol stations across the State this week.

According to various national dailies, the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) said Petronas Dagangan Bhd had promptly delivered the extra fuel.

“KPDN will continue to monitor and inspect the status of the supply from time to time,” KPDN was quoted in a statement issued yesterday (Dec 29).

It was confirmed by KPDN Sarawak yesterday that diesel fuel stocks at various PETRONAS stations across Sarawak, including Kuching, have been steadily replenished, providing much-needed relief to countless motorists.

The recent diesel shortage and outage in Sarawak raised widespread concern among the population, particularly affecting diesel vehicle users, both personal and industrial.

Responding to the situation on Dec 27, KPDN Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali announced that the pump disruption had been resolved with PETRONAS, with additional supply set to be mobilised within two days.

This announcement followed a statement from PETRONAS Dagangan on Dec 26, confirming a diesel supply issue affecting multiple stations nationwide, which was expected to persist until Dec 31.

The company, however, did not elaborate on the extent of the supply issue and how many stations were affected.

PETRONAS Dagangan apologised for any inconvenience caused and assured the public that they are actively collaborating with relevant authorities and stakeholders to minimise disruptions.

Concurrently, KPDN Sarawak emphasised that stringent action will be taken without compromise for any diesel misappropriation and offences under the Control of Supply Act 1961 and related legislation.

Complaints and inquiries can be submitted via e-aduan.kpdn.gov.my, the KPDN Sarawak operation rooms at 082-537703, Whatsapp to 019-2794317 or 019-8488000 (consumers complaint), and the hotline at 1-800-886-800. — DayakDaily