A Singapore-registered vehicle was recently spotted filling up with RON95 petrol at a Malaysian station, drawing widespread attention online. The incident highlights ongoing concerns over fuel subsidies in Malaysia, where RON95 is heavily subsidised and intended primarily for local drivers.
The episode came to light in a post shared on the Facebook group Complaint Singapore on March 26. Images showed a Singapore-registered car using the yellow nozzle reserved for RON95 at an undisclosed petrol station. A Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) sticker on the car suggested that the driver worked as an e-hailing operator. The original poster expressed frustration in the caption: “Don’t repeat it again, just once, okay?”
Reactions from netizens ranged from disapproval to amusement. Some labelled the driver as taking advantage of the subsidised fuel illegally, while others pointed out that petrol stations themselves rarely enforce the rules, allowing such incidents to go unchecked.
Public Reactions Show Mixed Opinions
Many commenters expressed anger over the misuse of subsidised fuel. “This is basically stealing,” one remarked, emphasising that RON95 pricing is designed to support Malaysian motorists. Another suggested the driver was simply trying to benefit from lower prices before expected increases.
Others took a more pragmatic view, noting that some foreign-registered drivers use the fuel to maximise their expenses, especially in the context of high living costs and rising fuel prices. The debate underscores the tension between law enforcement and individual behaviour in cross-border situations.
Law Changes to Target Offenders
Previously, petrol station operators in Malaysia were held accountable if foreign-registered vehicles filled up with RON95. Starting April 1, 2026, however, legislation will extend liability directly to vehicle owners and drivers, tightening enforcement and deterring future incidents.
The incident serves as a reminder to all drivers crossing borders to respect local regulations, particularly regarding subsidised commodities. With fuel prices continuing to fluctuate regionally, authorities are keen to ensure that subsidised petrol benefits the intended population.