SST on imported fruits pose nutritional risks, consumer groups warn
In tabling Budget 2025, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim cited avocados as an example of 'premium' imported fruits that would cost more under an expanded Sales and Services Tax (SST) scheme.
However, the government's announcement yesterday revealed that all imported fruits - even the humble apple - have been categorised as non-essential items and will be slapped with a five percent sales tax.
The new tax, set to come into effect on July 1, has...
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- The Sun
Anwar conveys condolences over crash of Air India flight
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has conveyed his condolences to the families and friends of all those affected by the crash of Air India Flight 171 near Ahmedabad, India. 'I was deeply distressed to learn of the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 near Ahmedabad. On behalf of the government and people of Malaysia, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of all those affected. 'We share in India's sorrow and stand in full solidarity as relief efforts continue. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and with everyone mourning this terrible loss,' he said in a Facebook post today. The London-bound flight, carrying 242 people, including 12 crew members, crashed on Thursday shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad airport in the western state of Gujarat. Wisma Putra confirmed that no Malaysians were onboard.
Free Malaysia Today
an hour ago
- Free Malaysia Today
No M'sians on board ill-fated Air India flight, foreign ministry confirms
CNN reported that the death toll from the plane crash had risen to 133. (EPA Images pic) PUTRAJAYA : The Malaysian consulate-general in Mumbai has confirmed that no Malaysians were on board Air India flight AI171 which crashed near Ahmedabad Airport. Earlier, it was reported that the London-bound flight with 242 people on board, including 12 crew members, crashed on Thursday shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad airport in the western state of Gujarat. Separately, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim conveyed his condolences to the families and friends of all those affected by the crash. In a Facebook post, Anwar said he was deeply distressed to learn of the tragic crash. 'On behalf of the government and people of Malaysia, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of all those affected. 'We share in India's sorrow and stand in full solidarity as relief efforts continue. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and with everyone mourning this terrible loss.' CNN, meanwhile, reported that the death toll from the plane crash had risen to 133.
The Star
an hour ago
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Reintroduce flat-rate GST in Sabah, urges accountants association
KOTA KINABALU: The government is being urged to consider reintroducing a simplified Goods and Services Tax (GST). This proposal arises from concerns that the upcoming expansion of the Sales and Services Tax (SST) could burden businesses and consumers, especially in Sabah. The Sabah Association of Professional Accountants (SAPA) suggested a flat-rate GST set at 3% to offer a fairer, more transparent, and efficient taxation model that could ease administrative burdens and reduce cost layering across industries. "We believe a modern GST system, with basic exemptions and simplicity, would better serve Malaysia's fiscal goals while protecting the vulnerable," stated SAPA president Datuk Tan Kok Liang on Thursday (June 12). SAPA expressed concern that the SST expansion, effective July 1, could disproportionately impact Sabah's fragile economy. The inclusion of construction services and commercial property leases under SST could lead to higher project and rental costs, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. "In Sabah, infrastructure gaps and higher logistics costs already affect businesses. Adding tax pressure in areas like construction and shoplot rentals will further discourage investment and growth," said Tan. He noted that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), considered the backbone of the state's economy, risk bearing the brunt of these changes, with higher costs likely passed down to tenants and consumers. Tan acknowledged positive elements in SST, welcoming exemptions such as residential property rentals, basic goods like rice and medicines, and the exclusion of private healthcare for Malaysian citizens. "These are thoughtful measures that protect lower- and middle-income groups from unnecessary financial strain," said Tan, adding that such exemptions demonstrate the government's effort to balance revenue and social protection. The association argues GST offers advantages over SST, including input tax credits that avoid cascading costs, better audit trails, and stronger alignment with international tax standards, crucial for boosting investor confidence. Tan said a simplified GST system could be tailored to Malaysia's needs and implemented without affecting essential goods and services. "A well-designed GST would be more equitable and sustainable in the long term, likely less burdensome to consumers than the current dual-rate SST," he said. SAPA also raised concerns about mandatory e-invoicing, noting many businesses, NGOs, and religious institutions in Sabah may lack the technical capacity or infrastructure to comply. Tan mentioned that a reintroduced GST would incorporate invoice tracking, making a parallel e-invoicing system redundant for compliance purposes. The group urged policymakers to adopt a more inclusive and consultative approach in tax reform discussions, especially considering regional disparities between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. "We are ready to work with the government through technical consultations to ensure Sabah's unique economic circumstances are properly represented," Tan said.
