The bill for the sales and services tax (SST) was passed on 7 August and is scheduled to be implemented starting from 1 September 2018.
However, Malaysians are worried that business traders would take the opportunity to increase the prices of goods and services unethically.
Hence, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail welcomed the idea suggested by the Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) for the Malaysian public to keep receipts of purchases as evidence of any business malpractices, as reported by FMT. Remember to keep those bills!
“Keeping your receipts can help us take action against traders who raise prices unfairly. The receipts are tangible proof of the price paid and can be used to bring errant traders to book.”
He stated that the ministry will give full support to any move or initiative to take action against traders who raise prices unfairly.
Meanwhile, CAP President SM Mohamed Idris urged all consumers to start the habit of keeping receipts of their purchases before the implementation of SST next month to help detect profiteering. Yup, time to make it a habit!
He further stated that beat bases should be set up at popular trading centres so that consumers could lodge immediate reports of any unfair price hike. This also serves as a warning to traders that action will be taken against them for any unethical business practices.
The rate of SST is at 10% for sales and 6% for services. The system applies only to 38% of the consumer price index basket of goods and services.
So guys, remember to start keeping your receipts of purchases! Be aware and protect your rights as Malaysian consumers!
Also read: Malaysians Can Enjoy Cheaper House Prices of Up to 10% Following SST Implementation