Cover image via Liew Chin Tong
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Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong has clarified that he never announced a new 150-litre monthly limit for subsidised RON95 fuel under the BUDI95 programme
His clarification follows widespread discussion sparked by remarks made at an event earlier today, 12 May, and reported by local media, including SAYS.
In a Facebook post, Liew said his comments had been "taken out of context" and stressed that he was not announcing any new government policy.
"In no instance [did] I announce anything on behalf of the government, and in no instance [did] I announce the 150 litres limit as potential government policy," he wrote.
The clarification comes after reports emerged suggesting that Putrajaya could potentially lower the monthly subsidised RON95 fuel quota from 200 litres to 150 litres as part of broader fuel subsidy rationalisation efforts
During the fireside chat at an AFFIN Bank event earlier, Liew had referenced fuel usage data collected through the BUDI95 mechanism, noting that a majority of Malaysians consume below certain fuel thresholds.
However, he said his remarks were meant to explain how the government could better understand fuel consumption patterns and prepare for longer-term energy challenges.
According to Liew, the BUDI95 mechanism serves as a useful tool because it provides policymakers with data on Malaysians' travel and fuel usage patterns.
He also stressed that the government's top priority is ensuring Malaysia maintains sufficient fuel supply for as long as possible amid ongoing global energy uncertainty.
"As a society, we must ensure that we have a petrol supply for the longest time, and at some point we should build consensus to support the effort to reduce fuel consumption," he said.
Liew added that he regretted the "media storm" caused by the remarks and urged the public to consider the full context of what he had said.
The clarification comes amid ongoing national discussions over targeted fuel subsidies, including proposals to tighten eligibility for subsidised RON95 fuel and reduce subsidy leakages.
