The Federal Government should review the implementation of the Budi Diesel programme by increasing the subsidised fuel quota for those most in need, particularly single mothers, small traders and women entrepreneurs, said Upko Women's chief Mohina Ronnie Sidom (pic).
She said although the Government's decision to raise the quota to 300 litres for certain categories was a positive step, there were still gaps that needed to be addressed as many diesel vehicle users continued to face difficulties.
Mohina said many single mothers and women entrepreneurs in Sabah relied on diesel-powered four-wheel-drive vehicles and vans to run businesses, transport agricultural produce and trade at rural markets, with the State's geography, long travel distances, rural roads and high logistics costs requiring a more flexible policy approach.
She said the Government should consider allocating additional quotas based on users' actual needs rather than vehicle type, adding that a more targeted approach would ensure subsidies reached those who depended on diesel to generate household income.
Mohina also welcomed the Finance Ministry's commitment to monitor the implementation of the Budi Diesel programme and make improvements based on public feedback, urging special consideration for eligible women, particularly single mothers and micro-entrepreneurs, to ensure they were not left out of the targeted subsidy scheme.
