More may switch to RON97 now

By GEORGE WONG | 21 November 2014


PETALING JAYA: The newly-lowered price of RM2.55 from RM2.75 a litre for RON97 may see more people flocking to use the fuel, with many motorists believing it to be more efficient and kinder on their vehicle engines.

The development is also expected to help to lift some burden off the Government, which currently subsidises RON95 petrol.

Petroleum Dealers Association Malaysia deputy president Datuk Zulkifli Mokti said he anticipated a “good 15%-20%” of RON95 users would migrate to RON97.

“We don’t know the exact figure but I would predict approximately that many. When they move, it will help the Government save on the subsidy, meaning taxpayers’ money can be put to other use.”

While both fuels were of a high standard, he said RON97 was far superior and more environment-friendly.

“It performs better and the consumption is lower,” he told The Star.

RHB Bank research head Alexander Chia was more conservative in his estimates.

“I don’t think it will reach 20% due to the higher cost of living.

“Those who switch to RON97 will be car aficionados or those who think it affords them better mileage.

“I would say less than 10% will switch,” he said, adding that the cost of a full tank of RON97 could be as much as RM20 higher than a full tank of RON95.

“There will clearly be some savings for the nation, as the Government is currently subsidising 13 sen for each litre of RON95, which is RM2.43 at market price.”

Teacher Nurul Nadia Ali, 28, was among those willing to pay more for RON97.

“I won’t really mind the difference. I don’t think it’s better for your engine per se, but I’ve heard that it’s more environment-friendly, so I want to do my part,” she said.

Financial planner Shakir Ameer, 29, said he often filled up his Perodua Myvi with RON97 instead of RON95.

“RON97 is higher quality and more efficient. It’s also good for the car engine. Now that the price is slightly lower, I can do it more often,” he said.

Graphic designer Richard Ho, 31, said while he did not believe there were additional savings, he would not mind “treating” himself to a higher quality petrol.

Engineer Heikal Rosnan, 29, said now that the prices were so close, RON97 would be worth it.

“I drive a Proton 1.8 Waja, so RON97 will be more bang for the buck,” he said.

RON97 can withstand a higher level of compression than RON95 before detonating, due to better additives in the fuel.

Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Hasan Malek said if people were to switch to RON97, it would “definitely” help with subsidy liability.

“This is as RON97 isn’t subsidised and is based on the market value,” he said.

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