LANGKAWI – The government has not decided on whether to continue the electricity rebate enjoyed by 9.44 million consumers of Tenaga Nasional Bhd after December 31.
Energy and Natural Resources Minister Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan said the ministry has brought up the matter to be discussed with the cabinet, but the decision depends on the financial capability of the government.
“If the government’s financial position allows the rebate, it may be continued. We will wait for the announcement at the tabling of Budget 2022 on whether it is approved by the Finance Ministry. We hope there is good news for the people,” he said at a media conference after the handover a Letter of Intent for a Solar Initiative here today.
He was asked by reporters on whether the government intends to extend the 2 sen/kWh electricity rebate enjoyed by consumers from July 1 and is scheduled to end by December 31.
In June, the government announced an electricity tariff rebate involving an allocation of RM493 million through the Electricity Industry Fund to lighten the burden of the people affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Meanwhile, commenting on illegal gold mining exposed by the Sabah General Operations Force in Lahad Datu yesterday, Takiyuddin said the ministry is still waiting for a detailed report on the activity.
He said the ministry viewed the matter seriously and described illegal mining as very dangerous and is akin to stealing the country’s treasure.
“We do not encourage the activity and not following standard operating procedures, as it could be fatal if the mine collapsed.
“Besides that, (the gold) is property of the government, and mineral extraction is the government’s right as it is a national treasure, so if it is done illegally then it is the same as stealing,” he said. – Bernama, October 17, 2021
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