Malaysia’s retail prices for unsubsidised fuel fell by 5 sen per litre from August 6 to August 12, 2026. Unsubsidised RON95 petrol now costs RM3.77 per litre, down from RM3.82. RON97 petrol dropped from RM4.40 to RM4.35, while diesel declined from RM4.62 to RM4.57 per litre [1, 2, 3]. Subsidised fuel prices remain unchanged at RM1.99 per litre for RON95 petrol and RM2.10 per litre for diesel [1, 2, 3].
The price reduction ends three consecutive weeks of increases in unsubsidised fuel prices. The adjustment reflects a decline in prices toward the end of the Automatic Pricing Mechanism (APM) calculation period, despite Brent crude prices exceeding USD 90 per barrel last week [1, 2, 3].
The Malaysia Ministry of Finance cited persistent geopolitical uncertainty and volatility affecting the global oil market, including risks of supply disruptions through strategic shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. It stated, "The geopolitical situation remains uncertain, including developments relating to peace efforts that continue to change from day to day and this has continued to cause significant volatility in the global oil market." The ministry added that until conflicts reach a definitive resolution, petroleum prices will continue to be affected by global uncertainty [1].
The government pledged a measured approach to protect consumers from sharp price swings while ensuring adequate fuel supply. Officials urged the public to practice prudent fuel consumption, saying, "Better travel planning and reducing unnecessary trips can help ease pressure on the national supply and subsidy spending" [2].
Meanwhile, in Taiwan, state oil company CPC maintained retail fuel prices unchanged for the week of August 10 to 16 despite high international oil prices, absorbing subsidies totaling about NT$16.43 billion since February 28. Taiwan’s prices for 92, 95, and 98 unleaded gasoline stand at NT$30.5, NT$32.0, and NT$34.0 per litre respectively, with diesel at NT$29.3 per litre [4, 5, 6].
CPC explained its pricing policy by citing high geopolitical risks affecting Middle East oil supplies and government tax cuts. The company said, "To care for domestic livelihood and stabilize prices, government expanded goods tax reductions and CPC absorbs part of the cost to maintain Asia neighbor lowest prices during high international fuel prices" [4].
