Sarawak DAP urges Putrajaya to raise Budi Diesel quota to 500 litres monthly, citing unique transport challenges in the state’s rural areas.
KUCHING: Sarawak DAP has urged the federal government to increase the proposed Budi Diesel quota for diesel vehicle owners in the state from 300 litres to 500 litres per month, arguing that Sarawak’s geographical conditions require significantly higher fuel consumption.
State DAP chairman and Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen said the party had formally submitted the request to the Finance Ministry during a recent meeting in Kuala Lumpur.
He said the proposed 300-litre quota currently being considered by Putrajaya for Sabah and Sarawak would be insufficient for many vehicle owners, particularly those living and working in rural areas.
“The situation in Sarawak is unique due to the state’s geographical layout.
“The vast size of the state and the challenging terrain in the interior create significant logistical difficulties for drivers, who require more fuel to travel long distances,” Chong said in a statement.
Chong, who is also the Padungan assemblyman, said diesel-powered four-wheel-drive vehicles and pick-up trucks are essential modes of transport in many parts of Sarawak.
He said these vehicles are widely used by farmers, longhouse residents, transport operators, teachers, healthcare workers and civil servants serving remote communities.
“In rural Sarawak, rugged vehicles such as four-wheel drives and pick-up trucks are used daily by farmers, longhouse residents, cargo transporters and even teachers, civil servants and medical personnel.
“Three hundred litres is not enough,” he said.
“We have appealed to Putrajaya to allow a 500-litre quota for Sarawak.”
The Budi Diesel subsidy mechanism, which provides diesel at RM2.10 per litre for eligible recipients, is scheduled to take effect on July 1.
Under the current proposal, vehicle owners in Peninsular Malaysia will receive a monthly quota of 200 litres, while those in Sabah and Sarawak are expected to receive up to 300 litres.
However, Sarawak DAP maintains that the state’s unique transportation needs and vast distances justify a higher allocation to ensure rural communities and essential service providers are not adversely affected.
The party said it hopes the federal government will take into account Sarawak’s geographical realities before finalising the quota allocation.
