KOTA KINABALU: Data, including usage patterns and feedback from stakeholders, will be used to continuously assess the implementation of the Budi Diesel initiative, says Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.

The Finance Minister II said the initiative remains flexible and data-driven, with adjustments to be made based on actual usage patterns.

“We will always look at what the data tells us.

“For example, under Budi95, the original quota was 300 litres, but it was later revised to 200 litres based on usage patterns.

“The adjustment was not made to reduce the quota but was based on actual data.

“It showed that more than 94% to 95% of users consumed less than 300 litres, while those consistently using more than 200 litres accounted for less than 1%,” he told a press conference yesterday, Bernama reported.

He said the government would always refine its policies based on data.

Amir Hamzah was responding to queries on whether there would be a review of the Budi Diesel quota structure following its implementation on July 1.

He noted that the Budi Diesel programme was only in its fifth day of implementation in Sabah and Sarawak, with the initial focus on ensuring stability and access for eligible users.

He said any overall reassessment of the quota structure would take time as rollout data continued to be monitored.

So far, he said, all petrol stations have been operating without disruption, with users able to make purchases as usual.

He added that the government would continue to monitor the situation, with the relevant ministries and agencies working toget­her to ensure the targeted initiative runs smoothly.

On issues such as vehicle ownership, Amir Hamzah said the matter was being examined, with teams deployed on the ground to engage stakeholders.

He said the mechanism must remain flexible, noting that while MyKad is used for individual users, alternative arrangements such as fleet cards could also be considered.

The use of fleet cards, he added, could be used for service providers, including those in rural areas, to ensure subsidies are targeted appropriately.

On the Budi Diesel enquiry counters set up at petrol stations, he said they were important in improving public understanding of the initiative, including providing assistance with eligibility checks via QR codes and online applications.