AIR Putih assemblyman Lim Guan Eng has urged the Finance Ministry to postpone the implementation of the expanded Sales and Service Tax (SST) measures scheduled to take effect on July 1, calling instead for a public consultation before the rollout.
Speaking at a press conference at his service centre today, Lim voiced concern over the potential impact of the revised tax, particularly on female consumers. He pointed out that beauty service providers with annual turnovers exceeding RM500,000 will be subject to an 8% SST.
“Women voters cannot be ignored. The government must listen to voices from the ground and avoid rushing into policy implementation,” he said.
The expanded SST also includes a 5% tax on selected imported fruits such as apples, oranges, and grapes. Lim disagreed with the move, arguing that these are daily necessities for many households and should not be treated as luxury items.
“Such a move risks public dissatisfaction,” he warned.
Lim further noted that other sectors would also be affected.
“The construction companies with annual revenues of RM1.5 million or more will be subject to a 6% SST while leasing and rental services will face an 8% tax for earnings above RM500,000,” he said.
While supporting the need to expand the government’s tax base, Lim argued that the implementation is premature and could catch both businesses and consumers off guard.
“We support taxing non-citizens, whereby in the healthcare sector, foreigners should pay 6% SST, while Malaysians should be exempted,” he added.
Lim reiterated his call for the government to delay the policy rollout to allow time for greater public awareness and adjustment.
Separately, Lim also announced the allocation of RM6,500 in community funding to organisations in Air Putih. The contributions include RM2,500 to the Persatuan Menyambut Perayaan Da Shi Ye Bukit Bendera, RM2,000 to the Thaneer Panthal MPKK Taman Sempadan, and RM2,000 to the Kelab Rekreasi Air Itam.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting