Effective April 1, 2026, the Malaysian government has implemented a strict ban on the sale of subsidised RON95 petrol to all foreign-registered vehicles. This enforcement is being carried out under Ops TIRIS 4.0, a major operation led by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) to combat the leakage and smuggling of subsidised fuel, particularly in border regions. Foreign-registered vehicles are now required to purchase either RON97 or non-subsidised RON95 at market prices.
The move is part of a broader subsidy rationalization program intended to ensure that government aid reaches targeted Malaysian citizens rather than being exploited by non-residents. Authorities have increased patrols and inspections at petrol stations across the country, with a specific focus on states like Johor, Perlis, and Kelantan. Petrol station operators who fail to comply with this regulation face heavy fines or the revocation of their licenses, as the government seeks to plug a major financial drain on the national treasury.
Public response to the enforcement has been largely supportive, with many citizens calling for even stricter monitoring to prevent illegal fuel transfers. The government has also urged the public to report any suspicious activities at petrol stations to the KPDN through official channels. By reclaiming these diverted subsidies, the administration plans to redirect billions of ringgit toward essential public services and targeted financial assistance programs for low-income households.