SANDAKAN: The government’s decision to maintain the diesel subsidy at RM2.15 per litre in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan has been described as appropriate given local conditions.
The subsidy will continue despite geopolitical uncertainties in the Middle East affecting global fuel prices, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on March 26.
Upko Women’s Chief Mohina Ronnie Sidom said the move reflects the needs of Sabah residents, who rely heavily on diesel for daily activities.
She added that any price increase would particularly affect rural communities that depend on diesel-powered vehicles and machinery amid challenging road conditions.
“Any price increase will burden these groups and raise the cost of living, especially for those in interior areas,” she said.
Mohina noted that not all Malaysians experience the same level of development, and policies with minimal impact in urban areas could have significant effects in rural Sabah.
She also highlighted Sabah’s longstanding contribution to the country’s oil and gas sector.
She called for unity among Malaysians in facing global challenges, saying differences should strengthen rather than divide the nation.
