By Yuen Meikeng

PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA: Petrol dealers are concerned that fuel shortage at various pumps could spill over to petrol stations outside the Klang Valley.

Petroleum Dealers' Association of Malaysia president Abdul Wahid Bidin said the situation yesterday had not changed from the previous day and he was worried that more pumps would run dry as motorists filled up.

"The petrol stations which ran dry are still displaying 'Out of Stock' signs, while supply around Johor Baru, Malacca and the East Coast is fast running out," he said when contacted by The Star yesterday.

"We hope the Government will take into consideration the exodus during festive seasons when next deciding on petrol pricing," Wahid said.

He added that early notice should have been given by the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry so that petrol dealers could plan ahead.

Shell Petrol Dealers Association chairman Datuk Hashim Othman said although the situation might improve within the next few days, he was afraid that petrol supply in other cities, towns and villages could be affected.

"During the festive season, demand for petrol is tremendous due to the balik kampung rush," he said.

However, he believed that most people in the Klang Valley would have already left for their hometowns.

A Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd spokesman said they were trying to send petrol to the affected stations.

"Currently less than 10% of our stations nationwide, most of them in the Klang Valley, do not have petrol," Shell said in a statement yesterday.

The company described the shortage as an "exceptional situation" brought on by petrol prices being reduced before a major festival.

"We regret the inconvenience caused," it added.

Shell stations will remain open during the Hari Raya break.