Tuesday, March 07, 2006

Fuel price hike,deliver the promises fast

Fuel price hike,deliver the promises fast

The government has aggressively defended the recent hike in fuel price. It argues that it cannot continue providing subsidies forever. We have to stop this practice sometime and now is that time. Instead of gradually tailing of the subsidy, it has chosen the cold-turkey treatment which will be more painful,especially to the lower income group.

Most Malaysians would agree with this line of logic, if the government illustrates its willingness to channel the money for greater long-term benefits. Its efforts in this respect must be seen to be done as past experience has shown that the money is actually channeled elsewhere for the benefit of a selected and privileged few.

It should now deliver fast on its promises of using the billions saved from the subsidies to improve public transportation. Urgent action is needed in reorganizing the internal bus, rail and flight services.This I admit is no easy task but we have to start somewhere and now is the time.

It is also timely for the government to review subsidies in all other areas. If we are to successfully compete in the globalize world, we must get rid of the subsidy mentally as it is the survival of the fittest out there.

Dr.Chris Anthony

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