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Malaysia’s new two-tier pricing system for the base RON95 petrol that kicked off on Sept 30 went mostly smoothly, but experienced some hiccups. Although it was announced that all citizens will benefit from a lower RM1.99 per litre pricing, those with Singapore driving licences were initially excluded. A fix was announced, but until then, they would have to pay more.
The new price is just six sen lower than the previous RM2.05 per litre, but much lower than the unsubsidised RM2.60, hence leading to a fair amount of anxiety among motorists who fear paying more.
Electricity is simply a key part of everyone’s life, but some in Sabah have been frequently left in the dark due to power cuts. A lack of funds has hamstrung efforts to improve Sabah’s grid for decades. For example, the cash-strapped Sabah Electricity company will take more than four decades to complete an ongoing effort to upgrade cables across the state.
This is not including an estimated 400 villages that remain off the grid. A civil society coalition known as Sabah RE2 has been working with authorities to implement “mini-grids” using solar or hydropower for villages too far from existing transmission lines. But the going is slow – only 12 systems installed since 2021 out of 200 villages identified.
Such poor basic amenities – including access to water and decent transport systems – are set to be a key issue in Sabah at state polls expected in November this year.
The vote is a bellwether for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s multi-coalition government that has this year struggled with cost of living and economic issues in the face of global headwinds like the US import tariffs.
Now, heated controversies over land acquisition and media censorship are also putting a damper on the Pakatan Harapan-led administration, even as talk of holding a general election early in 2026 has swirled.
As always, if you have a suggestion or feedback on stories that you’d like to see our Malaysia bureau chase down, let me know here.
Malaysia demands release of citizens, condemns Israel’s seizure of Sumud flotilla
Pro-Palestine protests spill over to Malaysian petrol stations, Apple Store
A major rally is planned to greet US President Donald Trump during his visit in October.
Malaysia to let citizens with Singapore driving licences tap new RON95 fuel subsidy
Chronic power outages in Sabah set to be a lightning rod ahead of polls
Electrical supply problems have plagued voters in the East Malaysian state since the 1980s.
Bitter land row raises questions over PM Anwar’s urban renewal plan
Rowdy protest against eviction in Kg Sungai Baru prompts worries over the proposed law.
Suspension of Malaysiakini’s Facebook pages remains a mystery
Meta and government deny their hands in getting two Facebook pages temporarily suspended.
Malaysia fans fear Asian Cup blow as Fifa probe casts doubt on naturalised players
Malaysian completes Cambridge doctorate with zero corrections on thesis
