THE government has announced an increase in cash assistance under the BUDI Diesel programme, raising support for individual and agri-commodity recipients from RM200 to RM300.
The Ministry of Finance (MOF) confirmed via its social media channels that the RM100 top-up will apply to each eligible recipient from 17 March 2026, as part of immediate measures to mitigate the impact of rising global fuel costs.
According to the ministry, the enhanced aid aims to provide targeted relief to diesel users, particularly farmers, smallholders, and other operators within the food supply chain who rely heavily on diesel for their operations.
“This step is part of the government’s swift response to help ease the financial burden on diesel consumers, especially following the surge in global oil prices,” the ministry said.
The BUDI Diesel initiative is designed to ensure subsidies reach those most dependent on diesel, focusing on individuals and agri-commodity sectors rather than broad-based fuel subsidies.
The announcement comes as the MOF confirmed new fuel prices for the coming week, with diesel in Peninsular Malaysia rising to RM5.52 per litre, while prices in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan remain at RM2.15 per litre for the period from 26 March to 1 April 2026.
The government emphasised its ongoing commitment to protecting the welfare of Malaysians while maintaining fiscal balance amid the uncertainties of the global economy.
“Ensuring the well-being of the rakyat remains a priority, alongside sustaining the country’s fiscal stability in the face of unpredictable global economic challenges,” the ministry said. - March 26, 2026
