The moving counter BUDI Diesel is sometimes expanded in Sabah, Sarawak - Mustapha

KINABALU KOTA, 17 Sep: The MADANI Diesel Moving Counter program is being expanded in Sabah and Sarawak to ensure that rural and rural communities are not disadvantaged from enjoying the benefits of improvement of the program due to digital access constraints.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Sabah and Sarawak) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud said the geographical realities of both states require a closer approach to society and not just relying on online portals.

"We shouldn't rely solely on online portals. The geographical realities of Sabah and Sarawak, especially for rural and rural communities, require a closer and hands-on approach.

"I suggest that programs like the BUDI Diesel Movement Counter be expanded in collaboration with the Union of Community Development Leaders (UPPM) in Sabah, the Head of Community and Peoples' Party (KMKK) and the Committee for Rural Development and Security (JKKK) in Sarawak, Regional Offices, KPDN as well as related agencies", he said in a statement today.

He said the approach is important so that no citizen is excluded simply because of lack of information, lack of understanding of application procedures or facing digital access restrictions.

Mustapha also called on the Ministry of Finance (MOF), Ministry of Internal Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) as well as related agencies to strengthen cooperation with root-level community leadership structures.

"The root of this leadership network is closest to the community and can be used to convey information, identify those in need and guide people through the process of verification, application, appeal and transfer of BUDI Diesel qualifications", he said.

Mustapha said the BUDI Diesel improvement announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday is significant for Sabah and Sarawak as it takes into account the reality of vehicle use in both regions.

Under the new provisions, registered owners can transfer their eligibility to any real user of a qualified private diesel vehicle with immediate effect.

Owners who own more than one private diesel vehicle may also transfer qualifications to a maximum of three other individuals, subject to the stipulated conditions.

Mustapha said the improvement is proof that the Prime Minister hears the voices of the people of Sabah and Sarawak but a good policy will only achieve its goal when the rooted people can take advantage of the facilities provided.

He said feedback regarding the implementation of BUDI Diesel in Sabah and Sarawak will continue to be brought to the Ministerial Assembly level so that the matter continues to get the attention of the Federal Government. - TVS