Credit: Engin Akyurt

BUDI95 fuel subsidy program has been expanded with eligibility limits raised to allow more e-hailing drivers and airport taxi operators to benefit from subsidised RON95 petrol under the Controlled Subsidised Petrol Scheme (SKPS).

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the expansion in a post on X on Tuesday, describing it as part of the government’s continuous effort to promote social equity and economic well-being under the Malaysia MADANI framework.

According to the announcement, the government has agreed to increase the eligibility limit for BUDI95 enabling e-hailing drivers to receive up to 800 litres of subsidised petrol per month subject to travel conditions set by the scheme.

Additionally, airport taxis are now officially recognised as vehicles eligible to receive the same fuel subsidy, making them part of the newly expanded group of beneficiaries.

This move is expected to help reduce operational costs for taxi and e-hailing drivers while ensuring that public transport service prices remain affordable for users.

Background of the BUDI95 Program

BUDI95 program was introduced by the Malaysian government as a targeted mechanism to channel RON95 petrol subsidies directly to eligible groups, including lower- and middle-income individuals, farmers and registered public transport operators such as taxi and e-hailing drivers.

Previously, only certain registered drivers qualified for the subsidy based on their vehicle type and driving records.

However, in light of rising living costs and the government’s commitment to fair and efficient subsidy distribution, the program has now been expanded to raise the eligibility threshold and include new categories of beneficiaries.

This initiative is also part of Malaysia’s broader strategy to ensure that national subsidy spending is distributed more equitably and sustainably while encouraging responsible fuel consumption among citizens.

Shahriena Shukri is a journalist covering business and economic news in Malaysia, providing insights on market trends, corporate developments, and financial policies. More about Shahriena Shukri.