An RM1 jump for diesel from 1.58 to 2.58 (a rise of over 60%) is generally not accepted by all here in Malaysia. Although we pay some of the lowest prices for fuel, a sudden sharp rise only seeks to put more nails into the government's coffins. At no point in Malaysian history has there been so much resentment of the government by the ''silent majority".

When the price hike was announced, many of us made a beeline to the petrol stations to pump what ever little we could into our tanks. While waiting in line it was so ironic that it was announced that Malaysia or Petronas rather was making record profits. The following day, among the headlines was one that jumped to me and made my ears hot.. "tighten your belts and change of lifestyle". Whoever (a politician) said that need to drive their own car, pay for their own fuel, travel low budget, go to work at normal rush hour and then make that statement. Better still if they used public transport.

With the price increase, many people are reverting to scooters and motorbikes to commute to work. There have been serious worries of increase motorcycle accidents. Small cars? Small cars in Malaysia are not cheap. In fact they seemed to be the most expensive in the world. A Kenari (1,000cc) sells of RM 38K 3 years ago. Put in a 5 year repayment HP, the car comes close to RM50K. Resale? Forget it.. you'll be giving money away.

Criticism is easy. Finding a solution is hard. Malaysia should have a subsidy mechanism that tallies with the oil exports. The word is export because Petronas has become one of the most successful oil drilling companies in the world. They are able to drill in conflict zone under difficult circumstances, unlike companies that are under constant pressure of western pressure groups.