Currently, fishermen can purchase diesel at RM1.65 per liter, compared to the market price of RM3.22 per liter. The program has encountered issues with some recipients reselling their subsidized fuel quotas for profit.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu explained, “This is to ensure that only eligible fishermen can buy subsidised diesel and to prevent leakages. We want to make sure that the subsidies reach the intended recipients.”
The biometric verification will be required for all fishermen purchasing subsidized diesel in Malaysia. The ministry has not yet announced specific implementation dates but indicates the program will begin soon.
The initiative reflects growing government adoption of biometric systems for subsidy management and identity verification. Like other nations implementing national digital ID systems, the program aims to enhance service delivery while reducing fraud.
Malaysian authorities have not yet released details about technical specifications, data protection measures, or the system’s operational impact.
Source: New Straits Times
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February 20, 2025 – by Ji-seo Kim
