Groups in Johor Baru are calling for the Malaysian government to step up enforcement of existing laws for curbing the unauthorised sale of RON95 petrol, instead of introducing new policies, The Star has reported.
The introduction of new programmes with unclear mechanisms would be “troublesome” and might confuse the public, said Johor Baru Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Low Kueck Shin.
“Those in south Johor, especially Johor Baru, are aware that foreign-registered vehicles are not allowed to pump RON95 petrol, which is subsidised by the government for Malaysians. Foreign-registered vehicles including those from Singapore can only purchase petrol such as RON97,” Low said.
“We find it unnecessary to set up an unsubsidised RON95 petrol station. It is better for the government agencies to beef up enforcement to catch those who go against the law by purchasing subsidised fuel,” Low continued, adding that the law for this has been put in place for many years, and petrol station operators, kiosk attendants and even consumers are alert and vigilant on the matter.
According to Malaysia Tour Guides Council president Jimmy Leong, the government’s proposal to set up unsubsidised petrol stations will have only a minimal effect on tourism in Johor.
“Tourists drive into Johor for leisurely activities and pumping petrol is only a small part of their trip; they usually fill up their tanks before heading back to Singapore at night,” said Leong. Foreign-registered vehicles have gone viral on several occasions for refuelling with RON95, when by law foreign-registered vehicles are only allowed to use RON97 petrol.
Unsubsidised fuels have been on sale in Malaysia from February this year in the northern state of Perlis which borders Thailand, at two specialised stations in Padang Besar and Wang Kelian where RON95 is sold at RM3.22 per litre and diesel is sold at RM3.45 per litre.
At present, subsidised fuel prices see RON95 petrol sold in Malaysia at RM2.05 per litre and RM2.15 per litre for Euro 5 B10 and B20 grades of diesel, and RM2.35 per litre for Euro 5 B7.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
The comments reflect strong opinions on enforcing laws against foreign cars, especially Singaporeans, buying subsidized RON95 petrol. Some advocate for stricter law enforcement, such as video surveillance, IC checks, or confiscation of cars caught pumping subsidized fuel. Many express frustration over perceived lazy enforcement and suggest harsher penalties or vigilant actions by petrol stations and authorities. Several comments highlight national pride and criticize Singaporeans' disrespect for Malaysian laws, with suggestions like stationing police or military personnel at pumps. Racism and regional rivalry are evident, but there is a general consensus on the need for better enforcement to prevent foreign cars from exploiting fuel subsidies meant for Malaysians. Overall, sentiments lean toward frustration with current enforcement and a desire for stricter, more effective measures.