KUALA LUMPUR – The sharp rise in diesel prices is placing mounting pressure on Malaysia’s pest control industry, with operators warning of potential disruptions to essential services that safeguard public health.
Bumiputera Integrated Pest Management Malaysia (BIPM) president Wan Mohd Yusri Wan Rawi said in a statement that the increase in fuel costs has significantly impacted daily operations, particularly fieldwork such as fogging and logistics.
He noted that the industry plays a frontline role in controlling disease-carrying pests, especially mosquitoes, across residential areas and commercial premises.
“Rising diesel and petrol prices are weighing heavily on operators, regardless of company size,” he said.
According to him, fuel price volatility driven by global geopolitical factors has pushed operating costs up by as much as threefold.
Meanwhile, Malaysia Pest Management Association (MPMA) president Regine Lim said some companies are now struggling as they remain bound by pre-existing contracts signed before the fuel price surge.
She said the mismatch between current costs and contractual rates has placed operators under financial strain, with some already facing losses.
“Diesel is a critical component in pest control operations, both as a carrier in fogging activities and for daily logistics,” she said.
The association estimates that the industry consumes more than 4.4 million litres of diesel monthly, involving about 1,870 companies registered under the Pesticides Board of Malaysia.
Lim added that rising fuel prices have also driven up the cost of chemicals, equipment and other operational necessities.
Wan Mohd Yusri said the association has engaged relevant ministries and submitted follow-up requests seeking targeted diesel subsidies for the industry.
He noted that most operators rely on pickup trucks for field operations, which currently fall outside the existing subsidy categories.
He expressed hope that the government would consider targeted assistance, given the industry’s critical role in protecting public health. -MalayaDailyToday
