If you haven't been keeping up with the news lately, Malaysia just started a new rule for foreign registered cars. From today onwards, foreign registered cars will not be allowed to pump more than 20 litres of petrol within 50 kilometres of border areas. Put a cap on those tear ducts because it's not all that bad.

Unless the Malaysian authorities have found a way to measure the amount of petrol you've pumped, you can just easily pump 20 litres at this petrol station then go on to the rest to top off your tank. Assuming you're that determined. True that it's an inconvenience but only a minor one for those looking for half-priced petrol. Be warned though. If you're caught flouting this rule, there'll be a heavy price to pay. Literally, in the region of RM$100,000. I'm sure corrupt Malaysian officials will be having a field day with this one for a while to come.

Personally though, I think the Malaysian government (as usual) are implementing a rule that's going to end up shooting themselves in the foot. Considering that border towns like Johore are going to feel a steep drop in revenue with Singaporeans finding less reasons to drive up North. It's not unlikely that the Malaysian government won't reverse this rule if they suddenly find it unpopular with the locals and (most definitely) foreigners.

Unfortunately, there is some confusion regarding this new rule. Some are misinterpreting it and assume that the Malaysian government expects Singaporean cars to leave JB with only 20 litres of petrol in their tanks. Does it mean the excess fuel has to be siphoned out of the tank and burned? The more prudent motorists out there would understand that this rule only limits the amount of petrol you can buy before re-entering Singapore.

Nevertheless this is a dark day for those who frequent the North for a quick pitstop. It's just a shame my little Swift never got a chance to sip half-priced petrol. Sigh...