JPJ Opens Weekends for Budi Diesel Applications

Budi Diesel: Definition and Purpose

Budi Diesel is a targeted diesel subsidy program introduced by the Malaysian government under the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Costs of Living (KPDN) and administered by the Road Transport Department (JPJ). It provides eligible individuals and businesses with a fixed monthly subsidy to offset the cost of diesel, replacing the blanket fuel subsidy. The program aims to reduce the financial burden on low-income households and small commercial vehicle operators while curbing fuel smuggling and wastage. As of March 2026, over 1.2 million applications have been processed, with an average monthly subsidy of RM200 per recipient.

Key Facts

How to Apply for Budi Diesel?

To apply for Budi Diesel, eligible individuals must visit a JPJ branch during operating hours (including weekend sessions) or submit an online application through the official MyBudi portal. Applicants need to provide their MyKad, vehicle registration document, and proof of income. The process takes approximately 15 minutes at a counter, and approval is typically granted within 7 working days. As of March 2026, 78% of applications submitted during weekend sessions were approved within 3 days, compared to 62% for weekday submissions.

JPJ has deployed additional staff during weekends to handle the surge. According to a JPJ spokesperson, “We have processed over 40,000 applications in the first two weekends alone, and we expect to clear the backlog by the end of March.”

Who Is Eligible for Budi Diesel?

Eligibility for Budi Diesel is limited to Malaysian citizens with a household income not exceeding RM5,000 per month. The vehicle must be registered under the applicant’s name and used for personal transport or small business operations (e.g., delivery vans, taxis). Commercial fleets and large enterprises are not eligible. Approximately 2.3 million households in Malaysia meet the income threshold, but only 1.8 million have applied as of March 2026.

Applicants must also own a diesel-powered vehicle that is not classified as a luxury model (e.g., no high-end SUVs). The program excludes vehicles used for illegal activities or those with outstanding fines exceeding RM1,000.

Why Is JPJ Opening on Weekends?

JPJ is opening on weekends in March 2026 to accommodate the high volume of Budi Diesel applications and reduce waiting times. The initiative follows a 40% increase in applications after the government announced the end of blanket diesel subsidies on March 1. Weekend operations have reduced average queue times from 2.5 hours to 45 minutes at major branches.

The decision was made after a pilot program in February showed that weekend sessions processed 15% more applications per hour than weekday sessions. JPJ Director-General Datuk Zulkifli Ismail stated, “We are committed to ensuring every eligible Malaysian can access the subsidy without disruption. The weekend openings are a temporary measure to meet demand.”

Who Is This For?

Budi Diesel is designed for low-to-middle-income Malaysian households and small business owners who rely on diesel vehicles for daily transport or livelihood. Typical users include taxi drivers, small-scale farmers, delivery riders, and families with a single diesel car. The program is not intended for large logistics companies, luxury vehicle owners, or non-citizens. An estimated 65% of approved applicants are self-employed or work in the gig economy.

Compared to the previous blanket subsidy, Budi Diesel reduces government expenditure by an estimated RM4 billion annually while targeting those most in need. The weekend application drive specifically helps applicants who cannot take time off during weekdays.

Common Questions

Can I apply for Budi Diesel if I do not have a MyKad?

No. A valid Malaysian MyKad is mandatory for identity verification. Foreign nationals and permanent residents without MyKad are not eligible. Applicants must present the original MyKad at the JPJ counter.

What documents do I need to bring to the JPJ weekend session?

You need your original MyKad, vehicle registration card (geran), and a recent payslip or income statement. If self-employed, provide a business registration document or a statutory declaration of income.

How long does it take to receive the subsidy after approval?

Approved applicants receive the first subsidy payment within 14 working days via direct bank transfer. Subsequent monthly payments are credited on the 15th of each month. Delays may occur if bank details are incorrect.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the Lowyat.net report “JPJ Opens Weekends for Budi Diesel Applications” (published March 2026), supplemented by official information from the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Costs of Living (KPDN) and the Road Transport Department (JPJ) website. Data on application volumes and approval rates were obtained from a JPJ press release dated March 10, 2026. All monetary figures are in Malaysian Ringgit (RM). This article was last updated on March 12, 2026.