As Malaysia’s “Budi Madani RON95 Fuel Subsidy” (BUDI95) programme approaches its first full month of implementation, petrol stations nationwide are facing an unexpected trend — drivers forgetting their MyKad at the counter after refuelling.
Since the new requirement compels Malaysians to present their MyKad when purchasing subsidised RON95 fuel, many motorists admitted that they often rush off after pumping petrol, only to realise later that their identification card is still sitting at the station.
Many left behind their MyKad
A social media post showing a petrol station counter lined with multiple MyKad went viral recently.
According to the uploader, all the cards belonged to customers who accidentally left them behind after using their MyKad to pump fuel.
The station staff reportedly arranged the forgotten cards neatly at the counter to make it easier for owners to return and claim them.
Now so many people are forgetting their MyKad at petrol stations. Must we remind everyone every day? Sometimes people really leave in a hurry and forget,” the netizen wrote.
Some netizens agree
Many Malaysians flooded the comments agreeing that they too had nearly driven off without taking their MyKad back.
However, others defended the system, stressing that the rule is necessary to prevent non-citizens from enjoying subsidised fuel.
This is the only way to stop foreign workers from abusing the subsidy. Those saying it is troublesome should propose a better solution,” one user commented.
Calling for smoother system
The BUDI95 fuel subsidy expansion began on 30 September, following an announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on 22 September. The targeted subsidy applies to an estimated 16 million Malaysians aged 16 and above who possess a valid MyKad and driving licence.
Although many praise the policy for protecting national resources, daily inconveniences — such as the rising number of forgotten MyKad — continue to spark debate online.
With the programme still in its early phase, Malaysians are calling for smoother systems or digital alternatives in hopes of reducing long queues and preventing accidental card misplacement at petrol stations.
