We fully support the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living’s (KPDN) wise decision announced today to revise the regulations concerning the use of subsidised LPG cylinders, allowing all small-scale food operators, especially hawkers, to continue using subsidised gas. This measure not only demonstrates the government’s determination to listen to public opinion but also genuinely addresses the practical challenges and concerns faced by people at the grassroots level.
The issue of subsidised gas cylinder usage has recently gained widespread public attention. This stemmed from enforcement actions based on regulations introduced by the previous Perikatan Nasional administration in 2021, which restricted the use of subsidised LPG cylinders in an attempt to curb misuse of subsidised gas by immoral businesses. However, this crackdown caused confusion and anxiety among small food vendors and hawkers who run legitimate, small-scale businesses.
Now, the Madani Government has demonstrated a pragmatic and responsive approach by actively correcting the ambiguities of past policies and offering the people a solution that better reflects real-life conditions.
I would also like to express our gratitude to Transport Minister and DAP Secretary-General Anthony Loke, who raised this issue proactively in the Cabinet. The government’s openness in handling this matter, by quickly engaging with feedback from grassroots hawkers, trade associations, and Members of Parliament from both the government and opposition, ultimately led to a fair and rational policy revision. This inclusive and transparent style of governance is an essential part of democratic progress and once again affirms that “Madani” is not merely a slogan but a real, people-centred philosophy of governance.
It is widely known that many hawkers and small food businesses have long depended on 14kg subsidised LPG cylinders as a basic resource for daily operations. Forcing them to switch to non-subsidised alternatives would lead to a significant increase in operational costs, which would eventually result in higher prices for consumers and a broader economic ripple effect.
In light of this, the government, through KPDN, has made a decisive policy revision that offers much-needed assurance to hawkers. As long as they do not use more than three subsidised gas cylinders at one time (i.e. not exceeding a total of 42kg), they will be allowed to continue using subsidised gas without needing to apply for a Scheduled Controlled Goods Permit (PBKB). This is a timely and thoughtful move.
We also urge the government to strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to ensure subsidised LPG cylinders are not misused and that the subsidies benefit the intended target groups. A transparent and efficient distribution system, combined with strict enforcement, is crucial to ensuring the long-term effectiveness of this people-oriented policy.
In conclusion, this policy revision is a clear reflection of the Madani Government’s core value of putting people first. We will continue to support all initiatives that benefit the grassroots and contribute to the stability of the national economy, working hand in hand with the government to build a more equitable, inclusive, and progressive society