Man Caught Filling Container with Subsidised RON95 Petrol Next to S’pore Car in Johor, Authorities Launch Probe
A man believed to be linked to a Singapore-registered vehicle was recently spotted at a petrol station in Johor Bahru engaging in an act that has now triggered official investigations and public backlash. According to reports, the man was allegedly seen pouring subsidised RON95 petrol into a plastic container beside a Mini Cooper, clearly identifiable by its Singapore number plate.
The incident is said to have occurred at a station in Iskandar Puteri. A photo capturing the moment quickly went viral online, drawing widespread condemnation from netizens in Malaysia who criticised the abuse of their fuel subsidy system.
Subsidised Fuel Strictly for Malaysians
In Malaysia, RON95 petrol is heavily subsidised by the government and strictly reserved for use by Malaysian citizens. It is dispensed through yellow nozzles at petrol stations across the country and is not legally available for foreign-registered vehicles.
The sight of a man seemingly stockpiling the subsidised fuel in a container not only raised eyebrows but also reignited public discourse about the abuse of subsidies by foreigners, particularly from Singapore. The price difference is substantial — RON95 is priced at RM2.05 per litre (approximately S$0.63), while foreigners are required to purchase RON97 or RON100 instead. RON97 currently costs RM3.17 per litre (around S$0.96).
Authorities Respond Swiftly
Malaysia’s Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) in Johor confirmed on Aug 4 that an investigation has been launched in response to the viral image. The ministry acknowledged the public concern and stated that enforcement actions will be taken if laws were breached.
“If found guilty of selling subsidised fuel to foreigners, the petrol station operator may face a fine of up to RM1 million (S$300,000) or imprisonment of up to three years,” KPDN warned.
This case follows growing scrutiny on Singaporean motorists crossing into Johor to take advantage of more affordable fuel and goods. While the majority comply with local regulations, instances like this risk worsening bilateral tensions and invite stricter enforcement at petrol stations.
Public Reaction and Implications
Many Malaysians online have called for harsher penalties and better monitoring of petrol stations, especially those near the border. Meanwhile, Singaporeans have voiced concern about the fallout from such incidents, fearing that tighter fuel restrictions or blanket bans could result from the actions of a few individuals.
For now, Malaysian authorities are investigating the matter, and the outcome could set a precedent for how future fuel misuse by foreign drivers is dealt with.
With cross-border travel between Singapore and Johor being a daily necessity for many, especially for work and errands, it remains critical for visitors to observe local laws — not only to avoid hefty penalties but also to maintain good bilateral ties between both nations.