KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has acknowledged the financial strain faced by some Malaysians following recent diesel price adjustments, while stressing that the majority of consumers continue to benefit from government subsidies.
Speaking after officiating the new Sultan Ismail Petra Airport terminal in Pengkalan Chepa, Anwar said about 85% of diesel users are still paying subsidised rates, with only a smaller segment exposed to market pricing.
“I do not deny that there are those affected,” he said, noting that sectors such as transportation have felt the impact of the adjustments, which come amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East affecting global fuel markets.
He added that the government has introduced targeted exemptions to cushion the burden on key sectors and vulnerable groups.
Responding to concerns raised over specific groups, including fishermen, Anwar cautioned against amplifying isolated cases, emphasising that subsidised fuel access for such groups remains in place.
“We have provided many exemptions, but we should not sensationalise isolated cases,” he said.
Anwar stressed that broader global economic pressures have constrained fiscal space, but assured that the government is actively exploring solutions through continuous engagement and policy adjustments.
Also present at the event were Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook and Kelantan Menteri Besar Mohd Nassuruddin Daud. – April 18, 2026