MALAYSIA – A Singapore-registered car driver has once again been caught red-handed filling up with subsidised RON95 petrol in Johor Bahru, sparking criticism on both sides of the Causeway.
The latest case took place on 9 August, coinciding with Singapore’s National Day. According to Malaysian daily China Press, a photograph showed the male driver of a white Singapore-plated car refuelling with RON95 – a fuel grade reserved for Malaysians only. Foreign vehicles are strictly prohibited from purchasing this subsidised petrol under Malaysian law.
Authorities in Malaysia have confirmed that investigations are underway. The petrol pump in question was located directly in front of the cashier counter, raising questions about whether the station operator had been negligent. Officials have stated they will review CCTV footage to determine if any staff members had knowingly allowed the sale.
Politicians Urge Action Against Drivers
Some Malaysian politicians are pushing for stronger enforcement not only on petrol station operators, but also on foreign drivers who knowingly flout the rules. They argue that existing laws should be updated to empower authorities to take direct action against such offenders, including fines or immediate penalties.
This incident marks the second similar case reported in August. On 3 August, another Singapore-registered vehicle was filmed pumping RON95 petrol and then topping up more fuel into a plastic container – a move seen as a blatant disregard for the restrictions.
Singaporeans driving into Johor Bahru are currently only permitted to purchase RON97 or higher grades, which are not subsidised by the Malaysian government. The price gap between RON95 and RON97 remains significant, which has often tempted some drivers to break the rules for cheaper refuelling.
If Malaysian authorities proceed with stricter regulations and direct penalties, cross-border motorists may soon face heavier consequences for chasing cheaper fuel across the Causeway. This could lead to heightened checks at petrol stations near the border and tighter enforcement to protect Malaysia’s fuel subsidy policy.