KUCHING: It was indeed a nice surprise for local motorcyclists upon being given RM5 worth of petrol for free.
The first free petrol programme in Sarawak was organised together by Petronas and the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry (KPDNHEP).
Motorcyclists were seen waiting as early as 1.30pm at a Petronas fuel station at Jalan Batu Kawa.
Some knew the good news through social media, while some only knew about it when they went there to refuel.
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Deputy Minister Chong Chieng Jen, who was present at the launch, said the programme was especially for Gawai Dayak and Hari Raya celebration.
“Today, we sponsor petrol for a maximum of 500 motorcyclists. It’s to bring some cheer and give them a little token,” he told reporters today.
He said the programme would continue on May 31 at Mile 7 Petronas fuel station, while the third in the series will be on Hary Raya eve (June 4) at Petronas station, Mile 8 1/2. Both programmes will run from 2pm to 4pm.
“The allocation for the free petrol is from my MP fund,” he said when reporters asked whether the allocation was from his ministry or from his own pocket.
On whether other elected representatives should follow suit, Chong said, “I don’t want to advise anyone because everybody has their own way of helping the needy.
“Mine is among the few ways to help the low-income group during the festive celebration.”
Also present at the launch were Petronas Sarawak region retail sales manager Patrick Lenggang, KPDNHEP Sarawak deputy director Mohd Hanizam Kecheck, Padungan assemblyman Wong King Wei, and Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong.
