Include RORO bin heavy -duty waste trucks under diesel subsidy mechanism, plastic manufacturers association tells federal government

KUCHING, July 4 2026:  The Sarawak Branch of the Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association (MPMA) has called on the federal government to  review of the diesel subsidy mechanism, urging for the inclusion of "RoRo" (Roll-on/Roll-off)  RORO bin heavy-duty waste trucks under the subsidy scheme.

Caption: Roll-on/Roll-off bin heavy duty waste trucks excluded from diesel subsidy mechanism

Its chairman Eddie said the MPMA Sarawak Branch proposed establishing a dedicated diesel subsidy category for RORO bin trucks.

“This could be implemented through mechanisms such as MyKad verification or fleet card systems, using licensed usage and operational purpose as eligibility criteria, while strengthening collaboration between the government and industry to ensure policies reflect real-world operations,” he said in a statement.

He noted that waste management and recycling service sectors remain excluded from the current subsidy coverage, including RORO bin trucks widely used in waste management and recycling transportation.

He suggested that the mechanism be reviewed to better reflect real operational needs and to support Sarawak’s circular economy and sustainability goals.

Using a five-tonne RORO bin truck as an example, he said a full fuel tank requires about 80 litres of diesel.

“At the current price of approximately RM3.97 per litre, each refuelling costs around RM317.60,” he said, adding that if refuelling is done once a week (and in some cases up to three times weekly), a single vehicle incurs about RM1,270 in monthly diesel expenses. For companies operating multiple RORO bin trucks, monthly fuel costs could double from RM5,000 to RM10,000 under current diesel prices, creating a significant financial burden.

He warned that rising transport costs may force recycling operators to adjust collection prices or reduce service coverage, potentially affecting public participation in recycling efforts. 

He said a decline in recycling incentives could lead to more recyclable materials being discarded, undermining national circular economy and carbon reduction objectives.

In the long term, he said, lower recycling rates would result in more waste being sent to landfills, increasing government expenditure on waste management and environmental infrastructure. Savings from reduced diesel subsidies today could be offset by higher future costs in waste handling and environmental mitigation