Govt To Provide Diesel Subsidy For Ferry Operators Loke

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Ferry operators at major islands in Malaysia will receive diesel subsidies, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said.
He mentioned that the subsidy is set at a maximum of 50 sen per litre, with the price ceiling set at RM2.50 per litre.
The new scheme will take effect on Jan 1, 2025, and claims can be submitted on or before Feb 20.
“So, I want to remind all operators that if they wish to enjoy this diesel subsidy, which will certainly reduce their operating costs, they must ensure the fare is maintained,” he said at a press conference at his ministry in Putrajaya today.
Loke also said that those who do not maintain their fares will see their subsidies getting withdrawn, adding those who raise their fares without the Transport Ministry's approval may also risk having their operating licences revoked.
Ferry operators in the following islands will receive the diesel subsidies:
Labuan
Langkawi
Pangkor
Ketam
Tioman
Redang
Penang
Conditions for subsidy
On that note, Loke said those who wish to obtain the subsidies must fulfil several conditions.
Firstly, the ferry operators must be registered with the Marine Department and receive their diesel supply from bunker companies or skid tanks that have been authorised by the government.
They must also submit diesel purchase quota requests to the Diesel Subsidy Approval Committee (DSAC) under the Domestic Trade and Costs of Living Ministry.
Finally, diesel subsidy claims must be submitted monthly with the relevant supporting documents to the Finance Ministry, along with a copy to the closest Customs Station for verification, Loke said.
"The Transport Ministry wants to emphasise that although this diesel subsidy is intended to ease the operating costs of ferry operators, it is the responsibility of operators to ensure the improvement of service and safety to ensure more efficient and effective services for the people," Loke stressed.
On Dec 15, Loke said the cabinet had in principle agreed to provide ferry operators with the subsidy.
This comes after reports that fares for round-trip ferry services between Kuala Kedah, Kuala Perlis, and Langkawi would increase by RM3 to RM10.50 beginning Jan 1.
- Mkini

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