SST expansion ‘not divine law', govt willing to fine-tune policy, says Anwar's political secretary
Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim acknowledged growing public concern over the upcoming tax changes and assured that feedback would be taken seriously.
'Of course, there are bound to be concerns or dissatisfaction whenever a new policy is implemented. This is normal,' he told reporters here.
'This might not be the perfect policy. But if there are segments or sectors that require reconsideration, I believe the government will look into those concerns seriously.
'This is not divine law, it's human legislation. So, there's no issue if adjustments or improvements are needed. What's important is that the majority of the people are not burdened by this expansion,' he added.
Muhammad Kamil also gave an assurance that the SST expansion will not affect essential goods and is aimed at strengthening Malaysia's fiscal base.
'Malaysia has one of the lowest tax bases in the region, and the move to widen the SST coverage is aimed at enhancing fiscal sustainability without causing hardship to the public,' he said.
He was speaking after visiting a victim of last month's FRU truck crash in Taman Desa Tambun here.
His remarks came in response to concerns raised by six major business groups, which urged the government to delay the tax hike.
The groups warned the broader SST scope – including 8 per cent tax on commercial rental and leasing – could hurt investment, raise costs and dampen consumer sentiment amid economic headwinds.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Malay Mail
34 minutes ago
- Malay Mail
Malaysia-born Australian foreign minister Penny Wong recalls Sabah roots, marks 70 years of bilateral ties (VIDEO)
KUALA LUMPUR, July 15 — Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong says close people-to-people ties are key to long-term friendship between Australia and Malaysia. She said this is also supported by the shared history of both countries and a strong belief in the value of regional cooperation. 'The friendship between Australia and Malaysia is built on our shared history and the close relationships between our peoples,' she said in a 1-minute and 25-second video posted on her official Instagram account, @senatorpennywong. The video includes footage from her childhood in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, as well as her appearance at the 58th Asean Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM) and related meetings held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre last week. Wong added that this year marks the 70th anniversary of Australia-Malaysia diplomatic relations, and she expressed support for Malaysia's role as Asean Chair. 'We will continue working with our regional partners to support a shared vision for a more secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific, in which Asean plays a central role,' she said. Wong, who was born in Malaysia and raised in Australia, said her life story reflects the reality of modern Australian society. 'My story, like that of many Australians, is a modern Australian story — almost half of all Australians were born overseas or have a parent who was born overseas,' she said. She emphasised that this multicultural background is one of Australia's key strengths in building strong international relationships, including with Southeast Asian nations. 'It helps us find common ground with people across the world, including in Southeast Asia,' she added. — Bernama
The Star
an hour ago
- The Star
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong honours Sabah, reaffirms commitment to Asean
KUALA LUMPUR: Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong (pic) says close people-to-people ties are key to long-term friendship between Australia and Malaysia. She said this is also supported by the shared history of both countries and a strong belief in the value of regional cooperation. "The friendship between Australia and Malaysia is built on our shared history and the close relationships between our peoples,' she said in a one-minute and 25-second video posted on her official Instagram account, @senatorpennywong. The video includes footage from her childhood in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, as well as her appearance at the 58th Asean Foreign Ministers' Meeting and related meetings held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre last week. Wong added that this year marks the 70th anniversary of Australia-Malaysia diplomatic relations, and she expressed support for Malaysia's role as Asean Chair. "We will continue working with our regional partners to support a shared vision for a more secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific, in which Asean plays a central role,' she said. Wong, who was born in Malaysia and raised in Australia, said her life story reflects the reality of modern Australian society. "My story, like that of many Australians, is a modern Australian story - almost half of all Australians were born overseas or have a parent who was born overseas,' she said. She emphasised that this multicultural background is one of Australia's key strengths in building strong international relationships, including with South-East Asian nations. "It helps us find common ground with people across the world, including in South-East Asia,' she added. - Bernama
Sinar Daily
an hour ago
- Sinar Daily
Anwar's position as PM remains strong
He said attempts to challenge the Prime Minister's position through rallies have no impact on the current political stability and lack clear direction. 14 Jul 2025 09:19pm Angkatan Muda Keadilan chief Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim delivering his speech at the Tambun Parliamentary Constituency Islamic Arts Carnival and Mahabbah Madani Night. - Photo by Bernama IPOH - Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's position as Prime Minister is strong and will not be affected by any efforts to undermine him, including through 'Himpunan Turun Anwar' rally scheduled to be held in the federal capital on July 26. Angkatan Muda Keadilan (AMK) chief Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim said the Prime Minister continues to command the support of the majority of Members of Parliament in the Unity Government. "Attempts to challenge the Prime Minister's position through rallies have no impact on the current political stability and lack clear direction. "It is merely an effort to stir unrest, causing public anxiety without offering any constructive solutions," he told a press conference after opening the Tambun Parliamentary Constituency Islamic Arts Carnival and Mahabbah Madani Night at the Al-Amin Mosque compound here. Muhammad Kamil, who is also the Political Secretary to the Minister of Finance, said he remains confident the people are now more discerning in their judgment and will not be easily swayed by rallies orchestrated by opposition leaders. Angkatan Muda Keadilan chief Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim during the Tambun Parliamentary Constituency Islamic Arts Carnival and Mahabbah Madani Night. - Photo by Bernama "However, we continue to uphold the principles of democracy and do not obstruct their right to assemble as guaranteed by the Constitution," he said. He said the government is now focused on efforts to stabilise the cost of living, boost investor confidence and ensure more effective policy delivery for the benefit of the people. Regarding the carnival, Muhammad Kamil said that the two-day event, which began last Saturday, attracted over 10,000 visitors. He said the main objective of the event was to strengthen the role of agencies in promoting Islamic and spiritual activities in the community, while fostering the spirit of "hijrah". - BERNAMA
