PASSENGER boat companies will be able to register for cash refunds under the RON95 petrol subsidy scheme starting 9 October, as part of the government’s broader effort to ease cost pressures on water transport services in remote and island communities.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the initiative, part of the Subsidised Petrol Control System (SKPS), is aimed at ensuring passenger boat operators can continue offering vital services without being burdened by soaring fuel costs.
“The government has agreed to include public passenger boat operators in the list of eligible sectors for RON95 subsidies. Registration for refund claims can be made from 9 October via the portal [https://mysubsidi.kpdn.gov.my,”](https://mysubsidi.kpdn.gov.my,”) he said during a fleet card presentation ceremony at a local petrol station today.
Bernama quoted Armizan adding only operators registered with the Malaysia Marine Department (JLM), Sabah Ports and Harbours Department (JPDS), or the Sarawak Rivers Board (LSS) will be eligible.
The boats must also operate scheduled passenger services in populated areas, such as the Kudat–Pulau Banggi route.
As an interim measure, the government has agreed to process refund claims for fuel purchases made between 30 September and 31 October 2025.
To qualify, operators must submit supporting documents including business registration certificates, bank statements, details of their vessels, engine capacity and valid petrol purchase receipts.
“All completed claims will be verified by the relevant regulatory body and SKPS administrators. The Ministry of Finance will process the refunds, with disbursements made within 15 working days of verification,” he added.
Armizan stressed that the measureis designed not only to cushion operating costs but to ensure that water transport, which serves as a crucial link for isolated communities, remains accessible and affordable.
“The government is committed to safeguarding access to safe, reliable and affordable transportation, especially for communities in riverine and island regions,” he said.
As of 5pm on 2 October, SKPS had recorded registrations from 9,712 companies involving 20,713 vehicles since the system opened on 15 September. On that day alone, 531 new companies registered, including 243 public transport and 288 land freight operators. - October 3, 2025
