BUDI95 Initiative Will Not Shift Commuters Away From Public Transport - Loke

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 29 (Bernama) -- The travel patterns of current public transport users are unlikely to change despite the lower pump price under the BUDI MADANI RON95 (BUDI95) subsidy, as affordability and convenience remain their main considerations.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said commuters who rely on public transport would continue doing so, as the services remain cost-effective and practical compared with driving private vehicles.

“Public transport is equally affordable, especially with our RM50 monthly pass; it also offers convenience and time savings,” he told a press conference after the opening of the Gombak Integrated Terminal (TBG) by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim here today.

Loke said this when asked whether the fuel subsidy, which sets RON95 at RM1.99 per litre beginning tomorrow, would change the public behaviour in using public transport.

However, Loke said the Ministry of Transport (MOT) would continue to monitor travel data while promoting the advantages of public transport, stressing that fuel prices were only one factor influencing commuting choices.

Responding to concerns that cheaper fuel might encourage higher usage of private vehicles, Loke said BUDI95 was a targeted initiative to ensure that assistance reached the right groups.

“There are 13 states in the country. Besides the Klang Valley, there are many other areas and states  which depends on private vehicles, especially in the semi-rural areas and semi-urban areas, where public transport is still limited.

“So, while we are encouraging more public transport usage, we have to take into consideration that not every part of the country can depend on public transport. That’s why this subsidy is important,” he said.

Under the BUDI95 scheme, eligible vehicle owners will be able to purchase up to 300 litres of RON95 petrol per month at the subsidised price of RM1.99 per litre.

On another development, Loke said immediate suspension or deregistration of commercial vehicle operators who fail to comply with the Speed Limitation Device (SLD) requirement is not a practical measure.

Loke said such action would involve nearly 100,000 vehicles in the first phase alone and risk disrupting the supply chain, logistics and the wider industry.

“More than 97 per cent of commercial vehicles, including tour and express buses, have yet to verify their SLD installations ahead of the Oct 1, 2025 deadline. If we take immediate action, the industry will complain, and the impact will be very serious.

“So while vehicles without SLD will still pass inspection, enforcement will begin on Oct 1. We know which vehicle types are due under the first phase, and we will stop and check them,” he said.

According to Loke, operators found without proper SLD authorisation will be issued a notice to present themselves at the Road Transport Department (JPJ) within 10 days, together with proof that their vehicles have been fitted and verified with the device.

-- BERNAMA