Many Malaysians were excited when the government officially rolled out the BUDI95 petrol subsidy programme on 30 September, allowing eligible citizens with a valid driving licence to buy RON95 petrol at a reduced price of RM1.99 per litre.
The initiative, announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, is designed to help Malaysians cope with the rising cost of living. Under the scheme, each eligible driver is entitled to a monthly quota of 300 litres at the subsidised rate.
Photo via Paul Tan's Automative News
Since its introduction, the programme has sparked all kinds of stories from motorists at petrol stations nationwide. Some have shared frustrations over technical issues, such as faulty MyKad chips or expired licences that made them temporarily ineligible for the subsidy.
However, one story shared by a petrol station cashier quickly went viral for its unexpected twist.
According to a report by mStar, a woman visited the station and requested RM50 worth of RON95 petrol. But when the cashier asked if she wanted to pay by cash or e-wallet, she appeared completely taken aback.
“She told me she thought the BUDI95 programme was like the MySARA aid, where she wouldn’t need to pay anything. I was speechless. I tried to explain several times that it’s a subsidy, not a full handout,” the cashier shared.
After a lengthy back-and-forth, the woman decided not to refuel and allegedly blamed the cashier for “refusing” to let her claim the aid. “She was upset and said I didn’t understand how BUDI95 worked. But honestly, how could anyone think the government is giving away 300 litres of petrol for free every month?” the cashier added.
While the story drew laughter online, it also served as a reminder that some Malaysians may still be confused about how the subsidy actually works.
BUDI95 allows eligible individuals with valid Malaysian driving licences to buy RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre, up to 300 litres per month. The difference between the market price and the subsidised rate is automatically applied when you refuel, as long as your MyKad and vehicle are registered under your name!
