KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Government Teachers’ Union (KGKS) is calling on the government to reevaluate the 200-liter monthly diesel subsidy allocation under the BUDI MADANI Program for teachers in the state.
Union president Murkam Hj Hussien emphasized that the current quota warrants reconsideration, given that many educators in Sabah depend on diesel-powered or four-wheel drive vehicles for their daily commutes, particularly in rural locations.
He explained that restricting the subsidy to 200 liters per month could negatively impact teachers who travel regularly to reach their schools, especially in remote areas.
According to KGKS, this amount falls short of covering actual fuel needs, prompting the union’s appeal for a policy review.
In a statement issued today, Murkam highlighted that the BUDI MADANI Program must reflect Sabah’s unique geographical realities, including vast travel distances, widespread use of diesel vehicles, and limited infrastructure in isolated regions.
He warned that any rise in diesel prices would directly affect the living expenses of teaching staff, particularly those serving in hard-to-reach communities.
Recently, the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, announced that the subsidized diesel price is set at RM2.10 per liter nationwide.
