MAINTAINING 800-LITRE BUDI95 LIMIT FOR E-HAILING HELPS STABILISE COSTS - GEM

KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 (Bernama) -- The government’s decision to maintain the monthly ceiling of up to 800 litres under the Budi MADANI RON95 (BUDI95) programme for e-hailing drivers and gig workers is seen as a timely measure to help stabilise operating costs amid adjustments to the subsidy scheme.

Malaysian E-hailing Coalition (GEM) chief activist Masrizal Mahidin said the move could also stimulate demand for e-hailing services following the temporary adjustment to the BUDI95 quota eligibility beginning next month.

“The temporary quota adjustment is expected to encourage more users, particularly in urban areas, to shift to e-hailing instead of using their own vehicles, thereby creating opportunities for higher income among drivers,” he told Bernama.

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Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today announced that the government will implement an adjustment to the BUDI95 quota eligibility from 300 litres per month to 200 litres per month effective April 1, 2026, following the conflict in West Asia. 

However, to help ease the people’s burden, the Prime Minister said the BUDI95 initiative would remain priced at RM1.99 per litre.

Masrizal said maintaining the quota for e-hailing and gig workers provides immediate relief to drivers, but stressed the need for long-term solutions in addressing global oil price uncertainties.

In this regard, he suggested a more comprehensive approach, including supporting the gradual transition of the e-hailing sector to electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce dependence on petrol.

“The government and industry players need to provide sufficient incentives and infrastructure, while strengthening social protection, insurance, emergency funds and upskilling training to ensure the resilience of gig workers in facing global economic uncertainties,” he said.

Meanwhile, Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (FOMCA) chief executive officer, Dr T. Saravanan, said the decision to maintain the 800-litre subsidy reflects the government’s sensitivity towards groups that rely heavily on fuel as a source of income.

He said the measure is also crucial to ensure market stability and to prevent irresponsible activities that could disrupt supply.

“The implementation of this limit is aimed at ensuring sufficient fuel supply remains accessible to all users, while preventing excessive purchases or irresponsible activities that could affect market stability,” he said.

He also expressed hope that consumers would remain patient and understand the rationale behind the temporary adjustment to the BUDI95 quota, which he described as necessary to ensure energy security, supply stability and more prudent fuel management.

-- BERNAMA