A targeted petrol subsidy of up to 300 litres should be considered for healthcare workers who frequently carry out field duties, particularly those using their own vehicles to reach patients, Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa has said.
The Backbenchers Club chairman said many public healthcare staff depend on personal transport to conduct home visits for chronic patients, monitor infectious diseases, and deliver community-based health services. She stressed that mobility plays a crucial role in ensuring the effectiveness of grassroots healthcare delivery.
Dr Zaliha’s remarks came following the government’s decision on March 26 to reduce eligibility under the Budi Madani RON95 (BUDI95) programme from 300 litres to 200 litres per month, a move linked to fiscal adjustments amid global energy market pressures.
She expressed support for the broader subsidy rationalisation effort, noting that it is necessary to strengthen the country’s financial position. She also highlighted that the majority of Malaysians would not be significantly affected, as data indicates around 90 per cent of users consume less than 200 litres monthly.
However, she said a more targeted mechanism could ensure that healthcare workers with higher mobility requirements are not disadvantaged while maintaining overall fiscal discipline.
“A balanced approach is important to ensure fiscal discipline is strengthened without compromising the effectiveness of public healthcare services,” she added, calling for careful consideration of frontline needs alongside subsidy reforms.
