AN opposition MP has suggested that petrol stations be allowed to set their own price for petrol and diesel.

They would then be able to compete against each other, Tony Pua Kiam Wee (DAP-Petaling Jaya Utara) said at Parliament lobby yesterday.

He said falling crude oil prices had driven pump prices in the United States to RM1.742 per litre compared with RM1.90 per litre in Malaysia.

"It is an anomaly that our country does not allow anyone to sell fuel at a lower price. The government should allow fuel operators to compete among themselves to sell fuel at a lower price as this can translate to move savings for consumers."

On Tuesday, the government announced another 10 sen cut in the price of petrol and diesel. RON97 petrol is now RM1.90 per litre, while RON92 petrol and diesel is RM1.80 per litre.
Lim Kit Siang (DAP-Ipoh Timur) said despite the drop in fuel costs, the prices of goods and services remained high.

"There is no joy among the people as things are still expensive. I call upon the prime minister to ensure a reduction in the prices of goods."