Up, Up and Away….

I guess, practically all Malaysians (especially from the low and middle income groups) are complaining now considering the fact that under Pak Lah’s administration, the petrol price has increased 97.4% from RM1.37 in May 2004 to RM2.70 starting today (5th June 2008). Though the increase in fuel price is expected (no thanks to the sky rocking global oil price), but none has expected it to be so high, the highest in Malaysian history, up by 78sen! While there are various subsidy schemes waiting to be implemented, the increase will inevitably result in rising inflation, perhaps more than 10%. When petrol price goes up, electricity price, transportation fees, food items increases. This in turn created greater financial burden on the practically 44% of Malaysians. 

Many have speculated that the drastic rise in fuel price is "intentional" and "out of frustrations", mainly to make sure that the oppositions have a tough time fulfilling their election manifesto of controlling the fuel price. If that’s really the case, then Pak Lah should really re-think of his way managing this nation. I wonder how the money saved from subsidies (reported to be around 53 billions) will be used. I guess maybe they are already planning to send another astronaut to ISS (who came back and did a mega road show for "his" book, and earn profit….) or perhaps buying a new yatch for those cabinet ministers. It would be great if that money is spend to build high tech subways or better public transportation system, then there would be lesser cars on the road. It’s the people’s money (those paying various taxes) and it should goes back to
the people. But i doubt it will be their main agenda. Well, just wait and see…