Malaysians may soon be required to present their MyKad (National Identity Card) at fuel stations before filling up. This proposal is among several being considered to implement targeted subsidies for RON95 petrol, set to take effect in mid-2025, as announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Friday.
Once this system is established, approximately 85% of Malaysians will still access RON95 fuel at a subsidized rate of RM2.05 per litre, while the top 15% earners, referred to by the Prime Minister as maha kaya or super rich, will face higher prices. At present, the unsubsidized price for RON95 stands at RM2.76 per litre.
The specific methodology for pricing remains unclear. Transport Minister Anthony Loke noted that using the MyKad before refueling could be a potential solution.
“This would result in two distinct pricing structures: one for eligible Malaysians and another for the T15 and foreign individuals. However, this is still a proposal, with more details expected to be provided by the Finance Ministry in the upcoming months,” Loke stated, as reported by The Edge.
The concept of utilizing the MyKad to determine fuel pricing, particularly in relation to subsidy eligibility, is not a new idea. In 2014, former Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Ahmad Maslan revealed that a similar initiative was in development for the petrol subsidy rationalization program.
At that time, the plan included three tiers for RON95 pricing: individuals earning below RM5,000 per month would receive the full subsidy, while those earning between RM5,000 and RM10,000 would qualify for a partial subsidy. Those with incomes exceeding RM10,000 per month would not receive any subsidized fuel.
For 2025, with the T15 classification likely to be set arbitrarily, the actual income threshold for subsidy eligibility remains to be clarified.
So, fellow Malaysians, how do you feel about this MyKad proposal, and what should the income threshold be? Share your thoughts below.
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