Rakyat could adopt public transport, EVs amid fuel crisis; e-hailing car-pooling can reduce cost – Loke

Transport minister Anthony Loke has said in his speech at the transport ministry’s monthly assembly that the ministry expects more Malaysians to shift to public transport and EVs amidst the ongoing global fuel crisis, despite the government intending to keep (at least for now) the price of subsidised RON 95 petrol (Budi95) at RM1.99 a litre.

Being the populist weapon that it is (particularly in Malaysia), fuel is always a touchy and tricky subject. The first (and very valid) question is, “why would I shift to public transport and/or EVs when petrol is still RM1.99 a litre?” But RM4 billion a month on subsidies is not by any means a small amount, and the government has cut the monthly Budi95 limit from 300 to 200 litres and announced work-from-home. These are strong enough indications that the government would like us to use less fuel.

There may be a ceasefire and global crude oil prices may have dipped, but the war is not completely over and things could change – the more altruistic, pragmatic and bigger-picture-thinking among us would wonder how much longer the government can tahan spending RM4 billion a month, and would do their bit to ensure our fellow countrymen and countrywomen can continue enjoying RM1.99 petrol (or at least less than the current unsubsidised RM4.27) for as long as possible.

Our ASEAN neighbours are already taking fuel-saving measures. Of course, how you tighten your belts depends on individual circumstances and may not necessarily mean shifting to public transport and/or EVs. Loke also encouraged e-hailing firms to expand their car-pooling options, Bernama reports.

“This is something that can be implemented immediately, as there has already been a proof of concept carried out with several e-hailing companies,” he said, adding that car-pooling would allow passengers to share rides more efficiently at more affordable fares, while maintaining a balance between industry needs and consumer welfare. A 2019 study found Malaysians among the worst in the world at car-pooling.

You have a lot on your mind, I’m sure – share your thoughts with us below. Have you been carrying out any proactive measures to reduce your fuel usage, or have you been carrying on as usual?

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