How does Anwar respond to the claim that higher foreign prices are discrimination?

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Anwar Rejects Discrimination Claim, Cites National Priority for Subsidies

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has firmly rejected claims that charging foreigners the market rate for RON95 petrol, while Malaysians pay a subsidised RM1.99 per litre, constitutes discrimination. He asserted that this policy is a matter of national sovereignty and a deliberate choice to prioritise citizens, who contribute to the nation through taxes, over non-citizens. This targeted approach aims to ensure that substantial government subsidies directly benefit the Malaysian populace.
Prioritising Citizens as a Sovereign Right

Anwar stated that the policy is not about discrimination but reflects the prerogative of a sovereign nation to prioritise its own people. He explicitly mentioned that foreigners do not contribute to the country's economy through taxation in the same manner as Malaysian citizens. As Prime Minister, he emphasised his primary responsibility lies in looking after the welfare of Malaysians, a duty that guides such policy decisions.
Foreigners Do Not Pay Local Taxes

The Prime Minister directly addressed criticism from an opposition leader regarding the differential pricing. Anwar questioned the rationale behind expecting foreigners to receive local subsidies, highlighting that they do not pay taxes that fund such national benefits. He framed this as a standard practice in most countries, where national resources and subsidies are primarily allocated to citizens.
Malaysia's Fuel Prices Remain Competitive Regionally

Despite the fiscal pressures and the rationale for subsidy rationalisation, Anwar pointed out that Malaysia's fuel prices, even at the market rate for non-citizens, remain among the lowest in the region. He cited comparisons with neighbouring countries like Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia, where fuel prices are significantly higher, underscoring the government's continued commitment to providing affordable fuel for its citizens.

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How does Anwar respond to the claim that higher foreign prices are discrimination?

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