KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 — Finance Minister II Amir Hamzah Azizan emphasized that a targeted RON95 subsidy is crucial to reduce misuse, noting that approximately 40% of subsidized petrol is consumed by non-citizens, the commercial sector, and through smuggling. With RON95 subsidies costing about RM20 billion annually, the government could save up to RM8 billion by addressing these leakages, Amir Hamzah said in Dewan Rakyat.

In response to Aminolhuda Hassan (PH-Sri Gading), Amir Hamzah highlighted the MyBudi initiative's success in curbing diesel misuse. Since its launch in June 2024, diesel sales at petrol stations dropped by 25% (7 million liters per day), while commercial diesel sales rose by 50% (4 million liters per day), saving around RM600 million monthly.

As of October, over 140,000 individual Budi recipients and 65,000 agribusiness recipients were approved, totaling RM160 million in aid. Under the Budi Madani program, eligible recipients receive RM200 monthly, supporting farmers, smallholders, and private diesel vehicle owners.

The government is also refining income criteria for the RON95 subsidy to ensure support reaches the intended groups.