Hadi’s Diesel Argument Gains Attention as Fahmi Defends Government Policy
PUTRAJAYA, April 8 — PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang has sparked renewed debate over fuel pricing after presenting arguments that some observers say carry underlying merit, despite being rejected by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
Hadi questioned the need for Malaysia to raise diesel prices, pointing to the country’s status as an oil producer and favourable geopolitical developments, including access through the Selat Hormuz.
His remarks suggest that Malaysia may have more room to manage domestic fuel costs than what current policies reflect.
The argument also raises broader questions about national energy policy and the extent to which Malaysia should rely on global market forces.
Fahmi, however, dismissed these claims, stressing that fuel prices are influenced by complex global dynamics, including refining costs and international supply-demand conditions.
He noted that Malaysia’s dependence on refined petroleum products limits its ability to insulate itself from global price movements.
Fahmi further argued that no country, including major oil producers, has been able to avoid fuel price increases under current geopolitical pressures.
He also challenged Hadi’s comparison with Thailand, stating that diesel prices there are higher than in Malaysia.
Nonetheless, analysts point out that Hadi’s argument is not merely about price comparison, but about policy direction and long-term energy independence.
From this perspective, his position highlights the possibility of leveraging domestic strengths to reduce vulnerability to external shocks.
In contrast, the government maintains that its managed float pricing system remains the most practical approach in navigating global uncertainties.
To ease the burden on consumers, financial assistance such as the Budi Madani programme continues to be implemented.
The differing viewpoints underscore a deeper policy divide — whether to prioritise domestic control over resources or adapt to global market realities.
As fuel prices remain closely tied to cost-of-living concerns, the debate is likely to persist and attract continued public attention.
-wilayah.com.my
