Cadangan Bersama apung harga minyak tak realistik, kata Pemuda DAP

Pemuda DAP has questioned the realism of a plan to align fuel prices with market conditions, stating it could exacerbate the cost of living. Raja Ahmad Iskandar Fareez, deputy chief of the Pemuda, criticized the proposal by Sum Dek Joe, the spokesman for the Central Coordination Committee, for potentially raising household expenses.

The deputy asserted that the plan's reliance on waiting for oil prices to remain below USD70 per barrel is problematic if such projections are not met. He cited the volatile nature of global oil markets, recent regional conflicts, and the risk of further geopolitical instability as reasons making price predictions unreliable. He also pointed out that a sudden hike in petrol prices could have a ripple effect on various economic sectors, including transportation, logistics, food, and daily essentials.

Pemuda proposes a monthly cash subsidy for three months to households, but doubts this measure alone would be sufficient to offset rising costs. He questioned how the government could prevent the burden from being passed on to consumers and ensure inflation remains under control. He emphasized that oil market dynamics are unpredictable, especially in light of ongoing conflicts in the Asia-Pacific and the Teluk Strait region.

Pemuda emphasized that the government should use BUDI95 and BUDI Diesel as subsidies can be adjusted according to market conditions without burdening ordinary users. He argued that these mechanisms ensure more fuel is used, paying closer to the actual cost, and reduce disparities between commercial agents, smugglers, and foreigners.

He also highlighted that building a safe and reliable public transportation network, including end-of-journey connectivity, would take years to implement. He cautioned that expecting constant perfection is unrealistic and urged policymakers to consider the current situation, rather than relying on unrealistic formulas.