KOTA KINABALU, Sept 17 — The BUDI Madani Diesel (BUDI Diesel) mobile counter programme has been proposed for expansion to Sabah and Sarawak to ensure rural and remote communities are not left out of the initiative’s enhanced benefits because of limited access to digital services.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud said the geographical realities of both states required an approach that brought services closer to the people rather than relying solely on online platforms.
“We should not rely solely on online portals. The geographical realities of Sabah and Sarawak, particularly for rural and remote communities, call for a more direct, hands-on approach.
“I propose expanding initiatives such as the BUDI Diesel Mobile Counter in collaboration with the Community Development Leader Unit (UPPM) in Sabah; Community Leaders and Chiefs (KMKK) and Village Development and Security Committees (JKKK) in Sarawak; as well as District Offices, the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) and other relevant agencies,” he said in a statement today.
He said the approach was important to ensure that no citizen was left behind due to a lack of information, misunderstanding of application procedures or limited access to digital services.
Mustapha also urged the Ministry of Finance (MOF), KPDN and relevant agencies to strengthen cooperation with grassroots community leadership structures.
“This grassroots leadership network is closest to the community and can be leveraged to disseminate information, identify those in need of assistance and guide the public through the processes of eligibility checks, applications, appeals and the transfer of BUDI Diesel eligibility,” he said.
Mustapha said the improvements to the BUDI Diesel scheme announced yesterday by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim were significant for Sabah and Sarawak as they took into account the realities of vehicle usage in both states.
Under the new ruling, registered owners can transfer their eligibility to any eligible actual user of a private diesel vehicle, effective immediately.
Owners of more than one private diesel vehicle can also transfer eligibility to up to three other individuals, subject to the stipulated conditions.
“I view these improvements as proof that the prime minister is listening to the voices of the people of Sabah and Sarawak.
“However, a good policy will only achieve its objectives when people at the grassroots level can benefit from the facilities provided,” he said.
Mustapha said feedback on the implementation of BUDI Diesel in Sabah and Sarawak would continue to be raised at Cabinet meetings to ensure the matter remained a priority for the federal government. — Bernama
