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Government must balance economic management with public welfare, says Works Minister

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi has acknowledged that adjustments to the BUDI Diesel subsidy programme require compromise from Putrajaya, emphasising the need to consider public concerns amid economic pressures.

LSN Malaysia · 17 September 2026

Government must balance economic management with public welfare, says Works Minister

The government faces difficult trade-offs in managing the economy while protecting citizens from hardship, according to Nanta, who noted that policy adjustments often carry painful consequences for the public. The Works Minister's comments come as the administration grapples with calibrating support measures under the BUDI Diesel initiative, a key component of Malaysia's fuel subsidy framework. Nanta underscored that policymakers must carefully weigh economic sustainability against the immediate impact on ordinary Malaysians when implementing changes to such programmes. His remarks reflect growing recognition within the government that subsidy adjustments require consultation and sensitivity to public sentiment. The minister's statement suggests the administration is committed to finding middle-ground solutions that address fiscal concerns without imposing undue burden on households, particularly those dependent on diesel for transportation and business operations.