FUEL CRISIS

As usual, after the General Elections, fuel prices increase again. This issue is no longer a hot topic for the entire nation anymore because it meets our　nation's expectation. If we refer back to the history, perhaps one would say this has become the trend of BN government after every General Elections. However, things that matter to us right now is the government's credibility. Before PM Abdullah announced the petrol hikes starting from the 5th of June, Minister for Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Datuk Sharir did promise that the government will not increase petrol price but within the following 24 hours, BN government proudly presented a wonderful gift to the whole nation, which created an unforgettable sweet memory (nightmare) to all the fellow workers of petrol station in Malaysia.

June 12 midnight........
1.Petrol ( RM1.92 ......... RM 2.70 )
2.Diesel ( RM1.58 ......... RM 2.58 )

For many people, especially economists, it's reasonable that government increases the fuel prices due to the petrol hikes in its world market. However, as oil exporter, isn't it improper to make such a disaster all of a sudden ? After comparing with other countries (especially oil consumer like USA), many feel that it is ridiculous to increase our burden as Malaysian in this way. The opposition started to voice out their dissatisfaction and they began to question on this matter through different methods. Why is it that there　is no earlier announcement made to inform the public regarding this plan? Why the government does not take this step by step? The explanation given by government was made clear and simple, 'We have to follow the global petrol market, if the government will suffer great loss if we continue to provide subsidy for petrol price.' As everyone knows, once the fuel price increases, price for everything will also increase. Nowadays, many unethical business fellows will take advantage to find trouble with our wallets. However, the BN government is smart enough to handle this by employing 2000 unemployed graduates to perform 'spot check' in order to ensure that those people don't over-increase price of goods such asrices, salt and etc. This shows that the government does care for civilians' needs and welfare. Thus, be proud for being a Malaysian !

Example-

1 packet of flour (1kg) = 5.00(before) 5.20(after)

Then, the packet of flour is used for the following:

1 plate of fried mee 3.50(before)3.70(after)

1 piece of cake 0.50(before)0.60(after)

Can anyone recall the joke made by our respective DPM a few years ago when the same scenario happened? It　was indeed　very comforting for everyone, because this indicates that poor people will be the smartest group in Malaysia.

'Maybe this will make help consumers to be wiser in purchasing things that are needed only, instead of spending thrift unnecessarily.'

That is the voice of the people.