Full-time e-hailing drivers in Malaysia will now receive double the monthly RON95 petrol subsidy quota, with the limit raised from 300 litres to 600 litres per month under the Budi95 initiative.
According to Free Malaysia Today, the Finance Ministry said this adjustment will benefit more than 53,900 e-hailing drivers nationwide, verified through cross-checks with the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD).
A move to support e-hailing drivers
The move is part of the government’s ongoing effort to ease the cost of living and support drivers who rely on fuel as their main source of income.
Launched on Sept 30 as part of Malaysia’s subsidy rationalisation plan, the Budi95 programme allows eligible Malaysian drivers with valid licences to purchase RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre, up to a monthly quota of 300 litres.
The initiative ensures that subsidies are targeted and transparent, directly benefiting groups most affected by fuel price adjustments.
“Much-needed subsidy!”
Speaking to WeirdKaya, a 56-year-old retiree who picked up e-hailing work earlier this year shared that the subsidy is much-needed.
I only drive five to six hours a day, not nearly as much as and as consistent as the younger drivers, but I’ve already almost used up my 300 litres.”
He shared that he noticed the change in his subsidy last Saturday, right after refilling his tank.
He added that while 600 litres may still not be enough for those who drive 10 hours or more daily, it remains a huge relief.
“I’m really glad to receive this extra subsidy, I was just starting to worry about how I’d make it through the month after using up the 300L.”
Registered private boat users are also included
Beyond e-hailing drivers, the ministry also announced that registered private boat users in Sarawak are now included under BUDI95, following earlier expansions to Sabah and to those registered with the Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM).
Based on data from the Sarawak Rivers Board and relevant state agencies, over 1,400 registered boat users in Sarawak have now been activated for BUDI95 eligibility,” the ministry said.
Additionally, over 11,400 newly licensed drivers nationwide have been added to the programme, bringing the total number of BUDI95 beneficiaries to more than 16 million Malaysians.
