Malaysians must use their own MyKad for subsidised fuel as JPN enforces stricter rules to prevent misuse and fraud
THE National Registration Department (JPN) has issued a stern reminder to the public that using another individual’s MyKad to purchase subsidised fuel—even if the card belongs to a family member—is a criminal offence.
The announcement comes as global fuel prices continue to surge, putting increased pressure on Malaysia’s subsidy framework.
The ruling has triggered a heated debate among motorists on the social media platform Threads, with users divided over the practicality and necessity of such stringent controls.
One user, Amir, described the regulation as an overreach, commenting that the new rule “controls” consumers.
“Welcome to the new order, where everything is controlled,” he said.
Others, such as Anwar Ahmad, raised concerns regarding the monthly petrol subsidy quota, which was recently reduced from 300 litres to 200 litres.
While many drivers do not exhaust this limit, Anwar highlighted the plight of those with high-mileage requirements.
“I handle the training department and often travel outstation.
“Recently, I journeyed from Kuala Lumpur to Melaka, then Johor and back, followed by a trip to Kedah, Penang and Ipoh…approximately 2,000 kilometres in just two days. This does not include my daily commutes,” he said.
In response to these concerns, user @euphoria53_ suggested that the burden should shift to employers: “Commuting for work should ideally be covered by the company’s travel expenses. You could try discussing this with HR.”
Despite the criticism, a segment of the public supports the move as a vital measure to prevent the leakage of RON95 subsidies.
“The regulation isn’t meant to trouble families but to prevent the misuse of MyKad,” stated user @ava_adore83.
She argued that without such controls, individuals could potentially collect multiple identity cards to claim subsidies repeatedly, leading to widespread fraud.
JPN Director-General Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias confirmed today that the prohibition is in strict alignment with Regulation 25 of the National Registration Regulations 1990.
Under this law, it is an offence to use or possess an identity card that does not belong to you.
“All counter transactions, including fuel purchases, must be conducted personally by the actual MyKad owner,” Badrul explained, reinforcing that the system is designed to ensure subsidies reach the intended recipients.