Anwar plays down Rafizi’s ‘surprise’ on petrol subsidies

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said economy minister Rafizi Ramli was speaking primarily on the implementation of targeted diesel subsidies, which the government is currently studying for its effectiveness.

PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has downplayed economy minister Rafizi Ramli’s remarks that the government would introduce targeted subsidies for RON95 petrol in a “surprise” move, saying that Putrajaya has not made any decision on the matter.

He said Rafizi was speaking primarily on the implementation of targeted diesel subsidies, which the government is currently studying for its effectiveness, Bernama reported.

Anwar, who is also finance minister, said that any members of the public who feel disadvantaged by the targeted diesel subsidies may appeal to obtain assistance from the government.

“I read the text (of Rafizi’s interview). He mentioned that we are focusing on the targeted diesel subsidies, which needs careful consideration for implementation,” he told reporters after officiating the Penang Inland Revenue Board building today.

He was commenting on Rafizi’s remarks during an interview with Bloomberg at the World Economic Forum in Dalian, China, on Thursday. The minister was asked whether the targeted petrol subsidies would be implemented this year with a pre-announced timetable.

“We will keep our cards close to our chest in the same way we surprised everyone with diesel.

“We did surprise everyone with the targeted diesel subsidies and I think everyone is up for another surprise,” said Rafizi in jest.

Separately, on the upcoming by-election for the Nenggiri state seat in Kelantan, Anwar said parties in the unity government would hold discussions on the matter.