KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 15-  Ferry operators who raise ferry fares are not eligible to receive diesel subsidies, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook.

In a Facebook post today, he stated that the ministry had received in-principle approval from the Ministry of Finance last Friday to provide diesel subsidies to ferry operators serving major islands nationwide, including Langkawi, starting Jan 1 next year.

"I am deeply disappointed by the hasty decision of Langkawi ferry operators announcing fare increases today."

"I warn any ferry operators that they will not be eligible to receive diesel subsidies if they raise fares, especially for local citizens and domestic tourists," he said.

In the meantime, Loke wants all operators to withdraw the announcement immediately and consult with the Ministry of Transport in the near future.