Singapore Driver Sparks Fury After Pumping RON95 in Johor Bahru
A Singapore-registered car caught refuelling with Malaysia’s subsidised RON95 petrol has triggered an online storm, with both Singaporeans and Malaysians slamming the driver for “embarrassing” behaviour and calling for tougher action against such acts.
The incident, which surfaced on social media recently, shows a Singapore car filling up at a Johor Bahru petrol station using the yellow RON95 nozzle. While the fuel is priced at RM1.99 per litre (around S$0.61) for Malaysians under the government’s subsidy scheme, foreigners are not allowed to purchase it. Non-Malaysian vehicles are required to buy RON97, which costs about RM3.47 per litre (roughly S$1.06).
Many online users described the act as “xia suay” (embarrassing) and “cheapskate”, expressing frustration that a few individuals were giving all Singapore drivers a bad name. Some Malaysians even suggested implementing harsher penalties — including impounding foreign cars — to deter future violations.
Public Outrage Over ‘Cheapskate’ Behaviour
Facebook comments under the viral post painted a picture of collective anger and embarrassment. Singaporeans criticised the driver for tarnishing the nation’s reputation, with one user writing, “Buy car can, but petrol must go JB to save money? Malu sia!” Others demanded that Malaysian authorities take firm action, arguing that leniency would only encourage repeat offenders.
Malaysians, too, voiced their frustrations, noting that subsidised fuel is intended solely for citizens. One commenter suggested petrol stations should install IC-verification systems or use facial recognition to unlock RON95 pumps, ensuring only eligible users can access the discounted fuel.
The incident also sparked jokes and sarcastic remarks online. Some suggested creating a special lane labelled “For Singapore Cars – RON97 Only”, while others ridiculed the driver for wearing branded clothes yet choosing to save a few ringgit on petrol.
Tighter Checks May Be on the Way
Malaysia’s authorities have previously reminded petrol station operators that selling subsidised fuel to foreign-registered vehicles is strictly prohibited. Under existing regulations, violators can face fines, while station owners risk losing their operating licences if found complicit.
Cross-border refuelling rules are part of Malaysia’s broader effort to ensure that subsidies benefit locals amid rising energy costs. However, enforcement remains a challenge at busy border stations, where some foreign drivers attempt to blend in or “act blur” to get cheaper fuel.
For now, the viral backlash serves as a public reminder to Singapore motorists — RON95 is strictly off-limits. The price difference may be tempting, but getting caught could cost far more in penalties and reputation than the few dollars saved.
As one frustrated commenter summed it up: “You want to drive, then drive properly. Don’t make all Singaporeans look bad over one tank of cheap petrol.”