More than 13 million Malaysians benefited from about RM800 million in fuel subsidies during the first month of the BUDI MADANI RON95 (Budi95) programme, which began on 30 September 2025.

The Ministry of Finance (MOF) said 16.55 million citizens have been approved to buy RON95 petrol at the subsidised price of RM1.99 per litre, exceeding the government’s initial target of 15 million.

Without the subsidy, the fuel would cost RM2.60 per litre.

As of 31 October 2025, 13.1 million people had used their Budi95 benefits, purchasing 1.33 billion litres of subsidised RON95 worth RM2.66 billion.

This includes over 23,000 registered fishermen and boat users in Sabah and Sarawak who do not hold driving licences.

“Budi95 ensures that the people receive subsidies directly without a complicated process, and enables the government to re-channel savings into the development and welfare of the people.

It is clear that this programme provides multiple benefits to the people and the country,”

said YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, Minister of Finance II.

Under Budi95, Malaysians aged 16 and above with an active driving licence can purchase up to 300 litres of subsidised RON95 each month.

Since 13 October, full-time e-hailing drivers have been entitled to 600 litres per month following an increase that benefits nearly 58,000 drivers.

In October, private users consumed an average of 98.2 litres, while less than 0.7% of recipients had fully used their quota as of 26 October.

Among private users, 0.6% reached the 300-litre limit, while 0.3% of registered boat users did the same.

MOF said it had detected unusual usage patterns, including recipients depleting their quota in a short period and making repeated purchases near border areas.

The ministry, together with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, will strengthen monitoring at petrol stations and among consumers to prevent misuse.

Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Malaysia, based on image by Freepik