For majority or minority

The fuel price hike was hot news to Malaysia after the government had announced the increase of 30 cents per liter on the petrol price. With increase of 30 cents per liter the government will be able save an estimated amount of RM4.4bil by reducing fuel subsidy and promised to develop the poor public transportation. Our Prime Minister YAB Dato Seri Abdullah Badawi make comments on the fuel price increased by saying that the subsidy of petrol will be only benefit the rich group whom used petrol frequently and with the move of expanding the public transport the ‘rakyat’ will be benefiting now.

Thailand and Indonesia can move towards abolition of fuel subsidy that we see no reason Malaysia cannot do so. However, the Government should precede with caution its intention to divert the subsidy saved for development. With the favour only a few major construction company might get the tender when the government wanted to enhance the public transport facilities. Major construction company that shows good record and make good profit like IJM, GAMUDA and ROADBLD will have the advantage to obtain more government projects contract. Government tendering should be making more transparent and with everyone will be able to get a piece of the pie.

Malaysians will certainly not accept a situation where the benefits of the majority from the subsidy be diverted to a few who will benefit from the contracts dished out. If this happens then it is like taking the subsidy of the majority and putting it into the pockets of the minority. Hopefully, this will not happen.