DOMESTIC Trade and Cost of Living Minister Armizan Mohd Ali clarified that the recent situation involving limits on the purchase of subsidised diesel, aimed at preventing supply shortages, only affected specific fuel stations in certain districts of Sabah.

He said strong demand, especially during the festive season, school holidays, and malpractices, were among the factors that led these fuel stations to take such measures to ensure everyone had access.

He said the ministry conducted checks with the fuel company yesterday and was told it did not require an additional quota of subsidised diesel to meet demand.

“Some fuel companies are waiting for approval (to receive subsidised diesel within their quota), so they have to limit purchases to avoid a disruption in supply. In addition, the annual need for diesel for 2022 and this year in Sabah and Sarawak has been increasing.

“But we do not deny that there is misappropriation and smuggling. Irresponsible parties go to petrol stations repeatedly or to different locations to buy diesel exceeding their quota,” he told reporters after attending the Samat Family Fun Hike event at Bukit Bendera in Papar today.

Apart from targeted subsidies, Armizan said the ministry would implement stricter and more comprehensive enforcement next year.

Before this, several assemblymen – Calvin Chong (Elopura) and Junz Wong (Tanjung Aru) – had claimed that the move to limit the sale of subsidised diesel by petrol stations had been causing problems for the people. – Bernama, December 31, 2023