Barisan Nasional to Advocate for GST Reinstatement After Next General Election, Says Zahid
BUTTERWORTH — Barisan Nasional (BN) has announced plans to push for the reimplementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) following Malaysia’s 16th General Election (GE16), describing the GST as the most equitable and effective taxation system to enhance government revenue and fairness, according to coalition chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Speaking at a recent event, Zahid emphasized that GST offers a fairer tax regime that benefits the country’s financial stability. “GST allows the people to feel that the tax system is fair,” he said, noting that over 155 countries worldwide have adopted the GST model.
Zahid highlighted Malaysia’s unique position, pointing out that the nation is currently among only eight countries still utilizing the Sales and Services Tax (SST) system. “We implemented GST before, but later reverted to SST,” he added. Although BN recognizes the current use of SST, the coalition intends to campaign vigorously for GST’s return post-GE16 to provide a more robust financial framework for the government.
The GST, introduced previously in Malaysia before being replaced by SST, is viewed by BN leadership as a critical instrument for securing long-term revenue growth and tax equity among Malaysians.
For now, Zahid stated that BN is willing to allow the existing SST system to continue until the next general election, but plans to prioritize GST reinstatement once BN regains political power.
As Malaysia approaches its upcoming general election, tax policy is expected to be a significant aspect of political debates, with BN’s position clearly advocating for a shift back to the GST system to ensure sustainable government revenue and a fair taxation structure.
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