A viral image circulating on Facebook has sparked debate, showing what appears to be several vehicles — including those allegedly bearing Singapore-registered plates — refuelling with Ron95 petrol in Malaysia. The text overlaid on the image suggested that one of the cars, a Singapore-registered BMW, was caught pumping the subsidised fuel despite strict cross-border regulations.
The post, which was shared widely online, questioned whether Singapore vehicles were once again flouting Malaysia’s petrol rules. For years, Singapore-registered cars have been prohibited from buying the heavily subsidised Ron95 grade petrol in Malaysia, which is reserved for local motorists.
Netizens Criticise Drivers for “Spoiling the Market”
Facebook users were quick to weigh in, with many criticising the alleged actions of the drivers. One netizen wrote: “As long as it’s a foreign car, they should already know the rules — no Ron95. Don’t be cheap. Ron97, when converted to Singapore dollars, is still cheap. No need to save a few cents and spoil the market.”
Others expressed frustration at the repeated incidents of Singapore cars being accused of breaching the rule, with one user commenting: “Waiting for what? Catch and impound straight away!”
Some netizens, however, were sceptical about the authenticity of the viral image. “Could be Photoshop. Who knows? Only the car owners can verify if they were really in Malaysia,” one commenter said, urging caution before jumping to conclusions.
Cross-Border Petrol Ban Still in Place
Malaysia has long maintained its ban on foreign-registered vehicles purchasing Ron95 petrol. Enforcement officers have conducted regular spot checks at petrol stations near the Johor–Singapore Causeway, and offenders risk fines or having their vehicles impounded.
The rule is meant to prevent foreigners from taking advantage of Malaysia’s fuel subsidies, which keep Ron95 significantly cheaper than petrol prices across the Causeway.
Still, the viral post has reignited public debate on the effectiveness of enforcement. Some Singaporeans expressed embarrassment, saying that such behaviour gives locals a bad name. One user summed up the sentiment bluntly: “Don’t embarrass Singapore. Just follow the rules.”