KUCHING: The Sarawak government is facing calls to urgently address a diesel shortage that has been impacting the state for the past two weeks.
Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen, said that the crisis is significantly affecting the logistics sector, especially lorry and truck drivers who are struggling to obtain diesel. He confirmed the shortage after visiting several petrol stations in the city.
“For two weeks, the logistics sector has been severely inconvenienced by diesel shortages.
“Lorry drivers are forced to search multiple stations to refuel. This is unacceptable,” he said.
Chong pinpointed the government’s diesel quota as a primary cause.
“Diesel is sold at a subsidised price. Without the subsidy, it would cost over RM3 per litre. Therefore, I urge the government to take this issue seriously to avoid negative impacts on logistics, construction, and the economy,” he said at a press conference at Petronas Station Sungai Maong here today (Dec 24).
Chong acknowledged the role of the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Costs of Living (KPDN) in overseeing petrol stations. However, he stressed the need for state government to intervene, with a focus on increasing the diesel quota to meet demand.
He also called for stringent enforcement measures to prevent misuse and supply disruptions. He noted that petrol stations expect the diesel supply might not normalise until after the New Year.
