Kuala Lampur, April 11 --  

APRIL 11 - The oil shock should not be treated merely as a subsidy debate. It exposes a deeper structural issue. 

Malaysia continues to rely on fuel subsidies as a substitute for a stronger and more responsive welfare system. 

Whenever external shocks emerge, whether during Covid-19, supply chain disruptions, or now conflict-driven energy volatility, the policy reflex is similar, that is to absorb the pressure through price controls and temporary relief. 

This approach may soften immediate pain, but it does not address underlying vulnerability. The result is a cycle where each crisis forces the government into costly short-term interventions without building lasting resilience.

The...