Government undecided on rationalizing RON95 petrol subsidy

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim clarified that the government has not yet decided on the necessity of rationalizing the RON95 petrol subsidy.

Anwar said this in reaction to Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli’s remarks on the matter to the press in China.

“I read Rafizi’s text; he mentioned that we are focusing on diesel, which needs careful consideration for its implementation and if anyone feels they have been affected, they should submit their appeal,” he said, reported Bernama. 

He said this after officiating the Penang Inland Revenue Board (IRB) building.

He was commenting on remarks Rafizi made during an interview with Bloomberg at the World Economic Forum in Dalian, China, on June 27.

The minister was asked when the government would announce the implementation of targeted RON95 subsidies.

“We will keep our cards close to our chest in the same way we surprised everyone with diesel.

“We did surprise everyone with the targeted diesel subsidies and I think everyone is up for another surprise,” said Rafizi.

On the upcoming Nenggiri by-election in Kelantan, Anwar said parties in the unity government would hold discussions on the matter.

The Nenggiri by-election is scheduled for August 17, with nominations set for August 3 and early voting on August 13.

Bersatu’s decision to amend its party constitution led to the vacancy of the seat.