Transport minister Anthony Loke has said in his speech on the transport ministry’s monthly assembly that the ministry expects more Malaysians to shift to public transport and EVs amidst the continued global fuel crisis, despite the federal government desiring to keep (no less than for now) the value of subsidised RON 95 petrol (Budi95) at RM1.99 a litre.
Being the populist weapon that it’s (particularly in Malaysia), fuel is at all times a touchy and tricky subject. The primary (and really valid) query is, “why would I shift to public transport and/or EVs when petrol continues to be RM1.99 a litre?” But RM4 billion a month on subsidies is just not by any means a small amount, and the federal government has cut the monthly Budi95 limit from 300 to 200 litres, which is a powerful enough indication that the federal government would really like us to make use of less fuel.
There could also be a ceasefire and global crude oil prices could have dipped, however the war is way from over and things could change – the more altruistic and bigger-picture-thinking amongst us would wonder how for much longer the federal government can tahan spending RM4 billion a month, and would do their bit to make sure the general public can proceed enjoy Budi95 at RM1.99 for so long as possible.
In fact, the way you tighten your belts is predicated on individual circumstances and should not necessarily mean shifting to shifting to public transport and/or EVs. Loke also encouraged e-hailing firms to expand their car-pooling options, Bernama reports.
“That is something that might be implemented immediately, as there has already been a proof of concept carried out with several e-hailing firms,” he said, adding that car-pooling would allow passengers to share rides more efficiently at more cost-effective fares, while maintaining a balance between industry needs and consumer welfare.
You’ve rather a lot in your mind, I’m sure – share your thoughts with us below. Have you ever begun carrying out any proactive measures to cut back your fuel usage, or have you ever been largely carrying on as usual?
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This Article First Appeared At paultan.org
