THE targeted fuel subsidy programme under the BUDI MADANI RON95 (BUDI95) initiative has eased the burden of rising living costs for millions of Malaysians, including private sector workers, young business owners and students, with many reporting monthly savings since the scheme’s rollout last week.
Among the beneficiaries is private sector employee K. Gunasekaran, 54, who noted that the subsidised fuel price has trimmed his monthly petrol expenses.
“With RM600, I used to get around 292.68 litres of RON95 petrol at RM2.05 per litre. Now, at RM1.99, I only need to spend RM582.43 for the same amount,” he told Bernama.
The current unsubsidised market price of RON95 petrol has been set at RM2.60 per litre for the period from 30 September to 8 October.
For Ong Jun Di, 25, a young entrepreneur, the initiative has brought much-needed savings. “I allocate about RM480 monthly for petrol. Thanks to BUDI95, I can now channel some of those savings towards household expenses and future plans,” he said.
Universiti Kuala Lumpur nursing student Nurshami Abdul Rahim, 20, also highlighted the impact of BUDI95 on students. “For students like us who rely on motorcycles or cars, this initiative is a great relief, especially when we are depending on scholarships or loans to get by,” he said.
Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said that as of 6pm yesterday, nearly three million individuals had taken advantage of the BUDI95 scheme, with total fuel sales exceeding RM91 million in just four days.
“Approximately two million users have purchased RON95 petrol at the subsidised rate of RM1.99 per litre, now that it’s fully opened to Malaysian citizens,” he said during a visit to a Petronas station in Sri Hartamas.
Amir Hamzah added that the government is in discussions with the state governments of Sabah and Sarawak to extend BUDI95 to boat owners, particularly those with outboard engines. “In principle, we have agreed to allow them access to the subsidy, and eligibility criteria will be determined accordingly,” he said.
He also confirmed that those whose driving licences expired less than three years ago would still be eligible for the initiative. “We encourage them to renew their licences, but they can still benefit in the meantime,” he said.
Wi-Fi Glitch Causes Localised Disruption
Meanwhile, a viral video showing a disruption at a Petron station in Pasir Gudang, Johor, was attributed to a Wi-Fi failure. Petron Malaysia confirmed the incident as isolated and said its business continuity plan was activated promptly.
“We have assisted the affected customer, and all other transactions at eligible stations are proceeding at the subsidised price of RM1.99 per litre,” Petron said in a statement.
“Customers encountering issues are advised to contact Petron Care at 1300 228 211 or via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]).
Programme Rollout and Eligibility
The BUDI95 initiative began on 27 September with 300,000 military and police personnel, then expanded to over five million Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) recipients on 29 September. As of 30 September, it was opened to 16 million eligible Malaysians aged 16 and above who possess both a valid MyKad and an active driving licence.
Each qualified individual is entitled to up to 300 litres of RON95 petrol monthly at the subsidised price of RM1.99 per litre. - October 1, 2025
