KUALA LUMPUR: The implementation of the diesel subsidy rationalisation will not only affect the rich but also the people in the other income brackets, former prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.
In a posting on his Facebook page today, the Pagoh Member of Parliament shared a few examples of how the floated diesel prices will affect ordinary people.
"Within just a few days of the diesel subsidy rationalisation, we can see that vehicle towing companies have raised the prices of their services.
"Is it only the super rich whose vehicles break down on the road? Cars belonging to those who are considered poor do not break down?
"Concrete manufacturers have also raised the prices of concrete. The price of houses will certainly rise after this. Is it only the super rich who buy houses? What about other people?"
Muhyiddin also claimed that the prices of vegetables such as cucumbers, green mustard, and chilies have increased.
"Is it only the super rich who eat vegetables?" he asked.
A news portal, on June 11, reported that vehicle-towing companies and concrete producers had raised their prices since the previous day, following the hike in diesel prices from RM2.15 to RM3.35 per litre.
In response to the report, the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry issued a warning, stating that it would not hesitate to issue notices to any towing firms and concrete producers found to be profiteering.
Deputy Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Fuziah Salleh told the New Straits Times that both towing firms and concrete producers are not entitled to diesel subsidies.
Earlier today, the ministry announced that it had summoned 10 companies for increasing prices of goods and services after the implementation of targeted diesel subsidies on Monday.
Its minister Armizan Mohd Ali stated that notices were issued to these firms under Section 21 of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011.