GST will not be raised after elections, says DPM

BAGAN DATUK: The Government has assured that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 6% will not be raised even after the 14th General Election, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

The Deputy Prime Minister said this decision was made based on a calculation that the existing rate was sufficient and could contribute to the country’s revenue of more than RM40bil.

Dr Ahmad Zahid said in Budget 2018, the Government also projected an increase in revenue from oil and gas to about US$70 per barrel from US$52 per barrel.

“Revenue from oil, derived from the Petronas’ dividend, is able to help implement projects listed in the Barisan Nasional manifesto, apart from enabling the Government to accommodate an annual salary increase of the public servants,” he said during a press conference after attending a lunch at the Basha Restaurant here yesterday.

Dr Ahmad Zahid also said that the allegation of an increase in the GST rate has been spread by certain parties, who deliberately wanted to undermine the people’s trust.

He said the claim was unfounded because the Finance Ministry and Bank Negara did not see any need to raise the current rate.

On a separate matter, Dr Ahmad Zahid said anyone could contest in Bagan Datuk, but it was up to the voters to determine for themselves which party or individual could provide continuity and the best service there.

The incumbent MP was commenting on the announcement by Persatuan Seni Silat Gayong Ghaib Malaysia president Ibrahim Mat Zin, 68, better known as Raja Bomoh, to contest as an independent candidate.

Later in a separate event, Dr Ahmad Zahid said a special prison, specifically to house detainees under the Prevention of Crime Act (POCA), will be built in Bagan Datuk.

He said its construction had been approved by the Cabinet.

Currently, the prison for POCA detainees is located in Simpang Renggam, Johor. — Bernama