WHY was the fuel rebate scheme introduced in the first place?

It is an open secret that a majority of motorists who benefited from the RM625 rebate used the money on purposes other than managing their finances.

Thousands went overseas for holidays with the extra income. Others spent it on house renovations or expensive dinners at five-star restaurants.

Do they really need the rebate? The government should do away with it and come up with schemes whereby the poor will benefit more.

There is no need to reduce the price at the pumps. Let the money saved be channelled into other important areas. The people have already accustomed themselves to their new way of life after the increase in fuel prices. Those who still want to drive, with very few exceptions, have the financial means to do so.

The prime minister recently had an opportunity to witness for himself the realities of travelling on public transport.

He must be congratulated for his concern for the commuters who have to endure discomfort, inconvenience and suffering on overcrowded buses and trains.

The billions of ringgit could be spent to make our public transport a source of pride for Malaysians.

What about areas such as Taman Bukit Kepayang in Seremban, which is without public transport? Such places had bus services before which were discontinued because the state government was obsessed with profits instead of service to the people.

I watched some documentaries on the poor, such as Bersama Mu/Finding Angels, and was shocked that there are still Malaysians living in squalid conditions in a hand-to-mouth existence after 50 years of independence. A portion of the money from the fuel rebate should go to helping them.

Of course, all of us would want the government to subsidise us but it is the poor who need massive help.

MONG YOON WENG, Seremban

Source: NST – August 29, 2008