Subsidised diesel control scheme (SKDS) for goods transporters expanded to Sabah, Sarawak, Labuan

The planned expansion of the subsidised diesel control system (SKDS) for goods transport operators in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan began earlier this week. With its implementation, companies in the goods transport sector can now apply to be part of the SKDS scheme via the MySubsidi portal,.The Star reports.

As it is in the Peninsular, rhe system – which covers 23 categories of goods transport vehicles such as cargo lorries, refrigerated trucks and tankers – is aimed at ensuring diesel subsidies are channelled correctly to eligible commercial operators. Under the system, approved operators will be required to obtain a fleet card from oil companies to access subsidised diesel

While diesel prices in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan remain subsidised, domestic trade and cost of living (KPDN) minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the implementation is part of preparations to strengthen subsidy targeting and safeguard supply in the future. “We want to ensure that our fuel supply does not flow out of the country and is not used by irresponsible parties, so that supply security for the rakyat and industries can be maintained,” he said.

Because of connectivity challenges in East Malaysia, he said the ministry will provide online and physical registration option, with the latter available through KPDN offices and mobile counters deployed during outreach programmes.

Following this announcement, a consumer group welcomed the move to allow in-person registration for the SKDS, saying it would help traders, small operators and rural users who are facing difficulty with online registration. Yayasan Pengguna Negara Malaysia (YPNM) Sabah chairman David Chan said many genuine diesel users, including small business owners, transport operators, farmers and fishermen, might not be familiar with online systems or might have internet access problems.

“This physical counter service is a practical and people-friendly step to ensure no eligible applicant is left behind. Diesel is closely linked to transport, goods delivery and food prices, and any difficulty in accessing subsidy support will eventually affect consumers through higher costs,” he said via a statement.

Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.