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Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasized that Malaysia's government allocates between RM40 billion and RM45 billion annually to fuel subsidies, shielding citizens from international price pressures.
Nearly 68 per cent of companies benefiting from Malaysia's expanded diesel subsidy scheme are located in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan, representing over 10,000 businesses, the Domestic Trade Ministry says.
Malaysia's government projects combined RON95 and diesel subsidies could reach RM3.5 billion per month if crude oil prices remain around US$90 a barrel, with Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong assuring Parliament the fiscal position remains stable.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has cautioned against further fuel price reductions, noting that Malaysia's RM40 billion annual subsidy bill already strains public finances and risks destabilising the economy.
Malaysia's fiscal deficit is projected to reach 3.6 per cent of GDP in 2026, marginally above the government's 3.5 per cent target, as an additional RM25 billion fuel subsidy allocation is absorbed through revenue growth and expenditure adjustments rather than increased borrowing.
Malaysian lawmakers are expected to grill the government over persistent internet connectivity problems and the impact of Middle Eastern tensions on fuel subsidy costs during today's Dewan Rakyat sitting.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has directed the Second Finance Minister to investigate allegations that petrol station operators sustained significant losses during the transition to Malaysia's targeted fuel subsidy programme.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has pledged to negotiate with Chinese Premier Li Qiang during a planned visit to expand market access for Malaysian durian, aiming to stabilise prices that have collapsed amid simultaneous peak harvests across Peninsular Malaysia.
The Malaysian government expects its fuel subsidy bill to reach RM40 billion in 2026, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed, while reaffirming that the nation's petroleum supply chain remains secure and adequate for domestic demand.
A total of 885 residents from rural Julau have completed the Class B2 Probationary Driving Licence Assistance Programme, gaining eligibility for subsidised fuel—a significant relief for smallholders and rural workers facing rising petrol costs.