Razak Khamis also said the opposition coalition should look into whether it would be able to reduce diesel prices if it were to come to power after the 16th general election.

“Would we be able to bring down the price of diesel if we were to form the next government? It is uncertain.

“The best alternative is to find a solution to increase the income of the people so they will not be burdened by the possible increase in the price of goods and diesel, instead of inciting the people to hate the government,” the Sungai Tiang assemblyman told FMT.

The targeted diesel subsidy scheme was enforced on June 10 for Peninsular Malaysia, with rates to be reviewed on a weekly basis.

As of yesterday, diesel will continue to be sold at RM3.35 per litre in West Malaysia, while it will retail at RM2.15 per litre in Sabah and Sarawak.

Days after the targeted subsidy came into effect, former prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin criticised the initiative following the move by several businesses to increase their prices.

The PN chairman also slammed Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s claim that the targeted subsidies would only impact the wealthy.

Razak, the Pendang Bersatu division chief, acknowledged that his stance might be unpopular with other leaders in the opposition, but said it was time for PN to “move on” from the issue.

He said PN elected representatives should now go to the ground to help people cope with the rising cost of living and the increase in diesel prices.