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Daily Express
a day ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Govt's revision of SST expansion proves it listens to rakyat, says Fahmi
Published on: Saturday, June 28, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jun 28, 2025 By: Raphael Lee, FMT Text Size: The government announced yesterday that imported apples and oranges will be exempted from the expanded sales and service tax. (Envato Elements pic) Kuala Lumpur: The government's decision to exempt certain imported fruits from the expansion of the sales and service tax (SST) is proof that it listens to the people, says unity government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil. 'Usually, the finance ministry does not change its position after it makes an announcement,' he said at an event in Pantai Dalam here today. Yesterday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the government has decided to exempt imported apples and oranges from the expanded SST. He said the government acknowledged that many from among the poor and B40 income group would buy these imported fruits as they were affordable. The finance ministry previously said that the expansion of the SST from July 1, including a 5% rate on imported fruits, was strategically aimed at bolstering local agricultural demand and strengthening food security. Fahmi also hailed the Energy Commission's decision to lower electricity tariffs, saying this shows the government is genuine in implementing reforms that will benefit the public. On June 20, the commission said some 23.6 million domestic users in Peninsular Malaysia will enjoy fairer electricity rates, through the new tariff schedule approved by the government. Under the new tariff scheme from July 1 to the end of 2027, the base average tariff will be adjusted to 45.4 sen/kWh from the 45.62 sen/kWh which was approved in December 2024. The current base tariff of 39.95 sen/kWh was set from 2022 to 2024. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
2 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Beauty services exempted from expanded SST
Published on: Friday, June 27, 2025 Published on: Fri, Jun 27, 2025 Text Size: Services like manicures, pedicures, facials and hairdressing will continue to be exempted from SST. (Envato Elements pic) PETALING JAYA: The finance ministry has decided not to include beauty services under the expanded sales and service tax (SST) which comes into effect on July 1. The Treasury said the decision was made by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is also finance minister, in view of public sentiments. This decision means that services like manicures, pedicures, facials and hairdressing would be exempted from the expanded SST. An 8% service tax rate was set to be imposed on the sector for services exceeding RM500,000 in a 12-month period. Former finance minister Lim Guan Eng had warned that this would anger women voters and called for the expanded SST to be postponed as a whole. In a statement, the ministry also said mandarin oranges and dates would be exempted from SST. 'The ministry would like to reiterate that the Madani government has not imposed any sales tax on daily essential goods, in order to mitigate pressure on the cost of living for the majority of Malaysians. 'These tax-exempted essential goods, whether locally-produced or imported, include rice, chicken, beef, vegetables and eggs. Local fish varieties, including selar, tongkol, cencaru and sardines – whether frozen, chilled or fresh – will also continue to be exempted from the sales tax,' it said. Yesterday, Anwar announced that imported oranges and apples would be exempted from the SST as many from among the B40 income group would buy these fruits as they were affordable. Putrajaya has also decided to raise the service tax registration threshold for leasing or rental and financial services from RM500,000 to RM1 million, to reduce the number of small businesses that would be affected. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Express
Hot tips to keep your EV cool
Published on: Monday, June 23, 2025 Published on: Mon, Jun 23, 2025 By: ETX Daily Up Text Size: EV batteries can experience accelerated degradation in very hot weather. (Envato Elements pic) PARIS: When temperatures soar, it's not just people who feel the heat – your electric car does, too. To keep it running smoothly and preserve its performance over time, a little hot-weather care goes a long way. Here are some simple, smart tips to protect your EV from the harmful effects of the sun. Park in the shade Once you've come to a standstill, try to park in the shade, as prolonged exposure to the sun can accelerate degradation of battery cells. If this isn't possible, consider using a tarp, car cover or sunshade to reduce the effect of the sun's rays. When driving long-distance, it's a good idea to stop and park in a shaded spot, even if just for a few minutes, to allow your car to cool down. Advertisement Use preconditioning Many electric cars have a preconditioning function that cools the cabin before you start driving. Use this feature to cool down your car before you get in. Ideally, this should be done while the car is still plugged in, so as not to affect the battery level. If your vehicle does not have this feature, it's best to open the windows and drive for several minutes to lower the interior temperature before switching on the air conditioning. Opt for nighttime charging Charging your EV battery adds heat to the ambient temperature. It's, therefore, recommended to recharge during cooler hours, e.g. at night – unless, of course, you have solar charging capacity. Wash your car Dust and dirt accumulated on the bodywork can raise the temperature inside the car. Giving your EV a wash will not only limit this effect – it will also cool your vehicle down instantly. Remember, high temperatures can reduce battery performance, leading to decreased range and potentially impacting long-term battery health.
Daily Express
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Express
Motorcycle tyre safety: how lack of awareness increases accident risk
Published on: Monday, June 09, 2025 Published on: Mon, Jun 09, 2025 By: Bernama Text Size: Some believe second-hand or bald tyres provide better speed, which is a dangerous misconception. (Envato Elements pic) Kuala Lumpur: The complacent attitude of motorcyclists towards tyre safety, whether in terms of tread condition, air pressure, or wear level, could significantly increase the risk of road accidents. Associate professor Law Teik Hua, head of the road safety research centre at Universiti Putra Malaysia, said public awareness on tyre safety remains low, especially on aspects such as how to assess tyre conditions by reading the tread wear indicator (TWI) or checking expiry dates. Advertisement 'Many only change their tyres when they are completely worn out or when there is a puncture. A common myth is that if the tyre still looks thick, there's no need to change it, without checking the actual age or rubber condition. 'There are also those who believe second-hand or bald tyres provide better speed, which is a very dangerous misconception,' he told Bernama. Law said the typical lifespan of a motorcycle tyre is between three and five years from the date of manufacture. However, for high-usage instances such as delivery riders, tyres may need to be replaced every 1.5 to two years. 'Tyres that are safe for daily use should have treads with good grip, especially in wet conditions, compatible with the road surface. They should have durable construction, and possess the appropriate speed and load index for the motorcycle used,' he said. Advertisement Law said a tread depth of less than 1.6mm indicates that the tyre needs to be replaced, while a tread level that is flush with the TWI mark signifies the tyre is already worn out. 'Small cracks, bulges, or hardening of the tyre are signs of ageing or damage. Air pressure should also be checked weekly, based on the manufacturer's specifications,' he advised. Law further suggested that the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research and road transport department (JPJ) take a more proactive approach by organising tyre safety education campaigns and periodic inspections, as well as mandating the use of tyres that comply with safety standards. Meanwhile, civil servant Mohd Fairuz Shah Rezza Mustafha, 39, believes motorcyclists should take the initiative to understand tyre safety features rather than rely solely on mechanics. 'We are closest to our rides; therefore, tyre safety monitoring should start with us. I prefer to inspect my tyres myself, as it gives me more confidence when riding,' he explained. Fairuz, who rides a Honda RS150R for commuting and convoy activities, said he doesn't mind spending more for high-quality tyres that he feels confident using every day. 'I believe branded tyres offer a high level of safety assurance as a result of extensive research and development, as well as rigorous testing to ensure every detail of the design is truly safe,' he added.
Free Malaysia Today
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- Free Malaysia Today
Which engine oil is best for your vehicle?
The right engine oil is crucial for smooth engine performance, reduced friction, enhanced fuel efficiency, and fewer costly repairs. (Envato Elements pic) PETALING JAYA : With so many options of engine oil available in the market – from conventional to semi- and fully synthetic – you can be forgiven for feeling overwhelmed when trying to decide which is best for your vehicle. Each type of engine oil has its advantages and suitability factors for different vehicle types and driving conditions. As such, the right oil is crucial for smooth engine performance, helping to reduce friction, enhance fuel efficiency, and prevent costly repairs. So, what are the differences? Conventional engine oil, which is derived from crude oil, remains the most economical choice for vehicle owners. Commonly used in older car models and standard driving conditions, it provides sufficient lubrication but tends to degrade faster under extreme temperatures. This means drivers may need to change their oil more frequently to maintain optimal engine performance. And despite its affordability, conventional oil may not offer the long-term protection needed for modern engines. For those seeking a middle ground between cost and performance, semi-synthetic engine oil is a good option. This blend of conventional and synthetic oils offers enhanced heat resistance, improved longevity, and better engine protection compared to traditional oil. Ideal for daily commuters and those looking for a cost-effective yet efficient solution, semi-synthetic oil extends engine life while reducing the frequency of oil changes, making it a practical choice for modern driving needs. Engineered specifically for high-performance vehicles, fully synthetic engine oil offers superior lubrication, excellent thermal stability, and resistance to oxidation for the engine. This makes it particularly beneficial for extreme driving conditions, such as high-speed highway travel or stop-and-go city traffic, where engines experience greater stress. Although fully synthetic oil comes at a higher price point, its ability to enhance fuel efficiency, extend engine life, and reduce maintenance costs makes it a worthwhile investment for modern vehicles. Make sure to replenish your engine oil, or have your mechanic do it for you, to prevent wear and prolong the life of your vehicle. (Envato Elements pic) Here are more pointers when it comes to selecting the right engine oil: Viscosity matters Viscosity grades, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40, determine how well the oil flows at different temperatures. Using the correct viscosity recommended by your vehicle manufacturer ensures optimal lubrication, engine protection, and fuel efficiency. Consider driving conditions If you frequently drive in extreme heat, freezing temperatures, or heavy traffic, a high-quality synthetic oil provides better protection against wear and tear, helping to extend your engine's lifespan and improve overall efficiency. Follow manufacturer guidelines Always check your owner's manual for the manufacturer-recommended engine oil specifications. Using the wrong type can lead to reduced performance, increased wear, and even long-term engine damage. Sirim-certified oils When it comes to engine oil, verifying quality and authenticity is crucial to ensuring optimal vehicle performance and longevity. The introduction of the Sirim Genuine Products: Engine Oil for Motor Vehicle Certification provides reliable assurance that the lubricant meets strict performance and safety standards set by industry regulators. This ensures consistent oil performance across diverse driving conditions while protecting consumers from counterfeit and substandard products that could harm their engines. It also guarantees that the oil has undergone rigorous testing and aligns with international automotive standards, offering peace of mind and optimal engine protection for all drivers.
