Opinion

Targeted fuel subsidy scheme relies on public responsibility as misuse cases emerge

Malaysia’s BUDI95 targeted RON95 petrol subsidy highlights the need for ethical use by citizens, with authorities warning that improper redemption using another person’s MyKad undermines fairness

Updated 5 months ago · Published on 29 Dec 2025 11:34AM

Targeted fuel subsidy scheme relies on public responsibility as misuse cases emerge
Authorities have cautioned that the programme can only achieve its intended outcomes if citizens comply with the rules and exercise ethical conduct - December 29, 2025

THE successful implementation of Malaysia’s targeted fuel subsidy, Budi Madani RON95 (BUDI95), depends not only on technological systems but also on the high level of responsibility demonstrated by users, government officials have emphasised.

Introduced to ensure that RON95 petrol subsidies reach genuinely eligible recipients while curbing wastage in national expenditure, BUDI95 is based on a framework of trust.

Authorities have cautioned that the programme can only achieve its intended outcomes if citizens comply with the rules and exercise ethical conduct.

Recent reports highlighted a case in Gemencheh, Negeri Sembilan, in which a 42-year-old man was detained for attempting to redeem the BUDI95 subsidy using another individual’s MyKad.

The irregularity came to light when the rightful MyKad owner noticed the unauthorised transaction and lodged a formal complaint with the National Registration Department (JPN).

“This incident, though isolated, underscores that public policies rely on citizens acting as partners in their implementation. Without responsible behaviour, opportunities for misuse inevitably arise,” said officials familiar with the scheme.

Authorities emphasised that the MyKad functions not merely as an identification tool but as a symbol of personal trust and accountability. Misuse of identification documents, whether intentional or through carelessness, can compromise the fairness of subsidy distribution and erode confidence in the system.

BUDI95 reflects the government’s broader strategy of balancing citizens’ welfare with long-term fiscal discipline, with proper utilisation by the public considered essential to maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the targeted subsidy programme. - December 29, 2025

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