Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed that the subsidised price of RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre is strictly for Malaysian citizens, while foreigners will pay the market rate of around RM2.50 to RM2.60 per litre.
Anwar said the move is in line with the government’s commitment to social justice, ensuring that government’s substantial subsidies are enjoyed solely by Malaysian citizens.
“The subsidised petrol price of RM1.99 per litre is only for Malaysians. Foreigners and tourists, including those from Singapore, will have to pay the market rate,” he said, while reaffirming that this is not a form of discrimination but the policy of a sovereign nation committed to protecting the welfare of its people.
Anwar stressed that for years, government subsidies had been enjoyed by non-citizens, placing an unsustainable burden on public finances. The targeted subsidy mechanism, he explained, is a necessary step to curb leakages and redirect savings to national priorities.
Anwar also pushed back against criticism over fuel prices, stating that Malaysia’s petrol remains among the cheapest in the region despite mounting fiscal pressures.
“If you don’t believe me, just look at the fuel prices in Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia, all are much higher,” he said. “We are still able to provide RON95 at RM1.99 per litre. That is my responsibility.”
He added that savings from the subsidy rationalisation initiative would be channelled into strengthening social welfare programmes, rural development and raising the minimum wage, including for public sector employees and those in government-linked companies.
Anwar emphasised that the new pricing policy reflects the government’s broader fiscal reform agenda, which aims to improve efficiency, equity and economic resilience, while continuing to protect the most vulnerable Malaysians.
