KUALA LUMPUR – An organisation representing public transportation users expressed hope that Budget 2025, tabled this Friday, will implement a gradual removal of fuel subsidies and channel the savings towards public transport facilities.
Ajit Johl of the Malaysian Public Transport Users Association (4PAM) said the RM4 billion saved from the ongoing implementation of targeted diesel subsidy should be used to fund public transport.
Putrajaya should remove fuel subsidies on a gradual basis by 25% each year, and use the savings to improve and upgrade existing public transport facilities, the 4PAM president told Scoop.
“(Additionally), walkways (and) paths leading to public transport stations (must) be well lit, protected and have surveillance around the clock. (Plus), the facilities for disabled people (must be) upgraded at all stations,” he said in a budget wishlist sent to Scoop.
Another use for subsidy savings could be to subsidise fuel for e-hailing ride-share services, as this industry plays a vital role in the “last mile challenge” for public transport users, he added.
For this to work, the rideshare industry must ensure a transparent pricing mechanism that is based on distance and time to be worked out, Ajit also said.
Public transport users’ commission
Additionally, Ajit also called upon Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to set up a public transport user commission in Budget 2025 as there is no existing independent body or commission that can help formulate policy and set direction for the growth and improvement of the public transportation sector.
This commission, said Ajit, will focus on the safety, protection, awareness and rights of public transportation users.
“In addition, the new Commission can be the single entity to provide a comprehensive master plan to ensure seamless public transport is ready and in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG) framework,” he added.
This is critical as the public transport industry is single-handedly providing services to millions of users every day and coupled with the billions the government is spending, it’s only fair that the users get a commission to ensure that (their’) rights are always protected,” Ajit said. – October 16, 2024