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Deputy PM should explain RON95 quota stance, lawmaker questions Zahid

A Malaysian lawmaker has questioned why Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi did not raise concerns about the fuel subsidy quota during Cabinet meetings before publicly criticising Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's handling of the issue.

LSN Malaysia · 11 September 2026

Deputy PM should explain RON95 quota stance, lawmaker questions Zahid

Thulsi Manogaran, an elected representative, has called on Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to clarify his position on the RON95 petrol quota controversy, asking why the deputy premier did not voice objections during Jemaah Menteri, or Cabinet meetings, if he had concerns about the policy.

The lawmaker's remarks come as debate intensifies over the government's management of the fuel subsidy scheme. Manogaran suggested that any substantive disagreements within the Cabinet should be raised through proper internal channels rather than through public criticism.

The RON95 quota system has been a focal point of discussion regarding fuel subsidy sustainability and its impact on Malaysian consumers and the national budget. The issue has drawn scrutiny from various political quarters as the government seeks to balance fiscal responsibility with public welfare concerns.

Zahid's public remarks criticising the Prime Minister have prompted questions about Cabinet cohesion and decision-making processes within the administration. Manogaran's intervention underscores broader questions about internal governance procedures and the appropriate forums for ministerial disagreements.