KAPIT: The goods and services tax (GST) has become the hottest issue since its implementation on April 1 this year, acting Kapit Division Resident Elvis Didit says.
He pointed out that there had been a misperception on the new tax system which had caused great confusion and anger.
In order to clear the air, a senior Customs officer from Sibu was invited to give an overview of GST to community leaders at the civic centre here on Thursday.
“GST is a system of taxation which not everybody can explain. Today we have invited a senior officer from the Malaysian Royal Customs Department, Sibu to give us an overview of GST so that we’ve a better understanding,” said Elvis who is the organising chairman.
He reminded community leaders attending the talk to explain the tax system to their longhouse folk.
“I hope you will learn something about GST and share it with others so that they get accurate information on GST,” he told them.
Meanwhile, Wilson Nyabong Ijang, a political secretary to the chief minister, warned that the opposition would exploit GST to discredit the government.
“The government collects tax to finance development and social programmes. As the election draws near, it’s important the government tackles the issue raised on GST to clear the air,” he said.
Another political secretary to the chief minister, Jefferson Jamit Unyat, called on the Customs Department to monitor traders from profiteering.
“There’s certainly a need for Malaysian Royal Customs Department to establish a mechanism to monitor traders on the proper implementation of GST in Kapit. Publish the list of essential goods exempted from GST for the benefit of consumers and the list of shops registered with the Customs Department for GST,” he urged.
The talk was attended by some 500 people comprising heads of departments, community leaders, leaders of NGOs, traders and individuals.
