The Petroleum Dealers Association of Malaysia (PDAM) has issued a cautionary statement to consumers, signalling the possibility of diesel supply shortages. According to NST, this comes after Petronas Dagangan revealed that some of its stations might face diesel shortages until Sunday. The issue is attributed to heightened demand, driven by the popularity of low diesel prices, leading to a strain on available supplies. PDAM President Datuk Khairul Annuar Abdul Aziz predicts broader supply challenges for the petroleum industry, affecting more companies from early January 2024.
Petronas Dagangan, in its recent disclosure, cited the exhaustion of the government’s subsidised diesel quota to petroleum companies as a contributing factor to the supply problem. The surge in diesel usage has been unprecedented, prompting concerns about an industry-wide shortage. Government data indicates a 37.7% increase in diesel consumption from 6.1 billion litres in 2019 to 8.4 billion litres in the past year. The number of registered vehicles using only diesel stands at 2.13 million.
The situation has raised concerns among consumers, prompting the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry to take immediate action. Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali reassured the public that the ministry is in constant communication with Petronas to resolve the issue within 24 to 48 hours. He highlighted the successful resolution of supply issues with Petronas and instructed the company to provide a list of petrol stations receiving additional supplies for comprehensive monitoring. Petronas, along with other companies involved, has been asked to submit a comprehensive report outlining the cause of the issue.
The ministry’s proactive measures aim to address the potential diesel shortage, ensuring the needs of consumers are met in the affected areas. The collaboration between the ministry, the Finance Ministry, and Petronas underscores the urgency to manage and rectify the situation promptly.
