NIBONG TEBAL: Those opposing the diesel subsidy rationalisation are actually supporting the idea of “giving away” the people's money, says Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan.

"If you oppose diesel subsidy rationalisation, it means you are supporting foreigners making use of the people’s money.

“Those who are opposing it support industries misusing subsidised diesel when they are not entitled to it," he said during a unity talk held at Taman Sungai Duri in Kampung Sungai Duri here on Wednesday (June 26).

Ahmad, who is also Deputy Works Minister, said this situation had to be corrected, which led to the diesel subsidy rationalisation.

"We had to put a stop to (the misuse). We can save RM4bil to be put to good use for the people," he said.

Ahmad was here to campaign for Pakatan Harapan’s Dr Joohari Ariffin ahead of the Sungai Bakap state by-election.

He said he hoped that Umno and Barisan Nasional members and supporters would vote for the Pakatan candidate.

“We have not heard anything about a boycott (of polling) or such.

“Let us all come out to vote for the unity government. It is the (Penang) state government and Federal Government that can resolve the people’s issues here.

“The opposition cannot do that at a Federal level (and) they will not be able to do it at state level as well," he said.

He was responding to a question from the media about his confidence that the 5,000 Umno and Barisan Nasional members in Sungai Bakap would vote for Joohari.

Ahmad said while there were 5,000 registered members, there were more than 10,000 party supporters.

"I hope they come out and vote," he said.

Joohari is up against Perikatan Nasional's Abidin Ismail in a straight fight.

The by-election is set for July 6.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/27/opponents-of-targeted-diesel-subsidy-want-the-people039s-money-given-away-to-outsiders-says-ahmad-maslan