“GST Should Not Be Blamed For High Living Costs,” Says PM Najib

With the Goods and Services Tax (GST) being the hot topic on every Malaysian’s minds in light of the upcoming general election (GE14), experts and politicians have weighed in on the possibility of abolishing or continuing on with this tax.

Recently, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak gave his two cents on the matter during the launch of the Program Jualan Sentuhan Rakyat (PJSR) in Kota Kinabalu yesterday (21st March).

Source: mmo

In his speech, he pointed out that after almost three years since its implementation, Malaysians shouldn’t be feeling strapped for cash because of GST. He was quoted by the Malay Mail Online as saying,

“It’s not true that GST is to be blamed for living costs. It’s been two years now, there should be no more effect.”

Source: the star

“India did this April and it will go through four phases, first it will be five percent, then 12 per cent, 18 per cent and finally 28 per cent. Singapore’s GST is set to go up to nine per cent in 2021.”

“You cannot blame us. In the end it goes back to people.”

Recently, GST has become a topic of nationwide conversation, with citizens and public officials alike debating the pros and cons of the tax. While proponents of this tax say that our country would be in deficit if it was to be abolished, opponents claim that our country is already in deficit to begin with.

What do you think of this issue? Let us know in the comments below!

Also read: Are Malaysians Still Paying GST For Menstrual Products?