Govt open to feedback on new system

Published: Monday October 28, 2013 MYT 12:00:00 AM 

Updated: Monday October 28, 2013 MYT 10:55:23 AM

PETALING JAYA: The Government is open to any suggestions that can help fine-tune the Goods and Services Tax (GST), including expanding the list of basic items exempted from the tax.

Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Hasan Malek said the Government was prepared to make amendments based on feedback from the people and other relevant stakeholders.

Hasan said the Government wanted to ensure that the rakyat would be able to cope with the implementation of the GST, which is in 17 months’ time.

“We will make any necessary amendments.

“The Government always puts the interest of the people first.

“There is still plenty of time for the Government to look into it,” he said.

Hasan said the Ministry would be continuously engaging and consulting with all industry players on the matter.

“We have increased our engagements to explain in detail to those directly affected by the GST.

“We will ensure that they fully understand it,” he said.

Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Ahmad Maslan also said the Government would listen to all proposals and feedback.

“The Second Finance Minister will chair a special committee (to look into the matter).

“All views will definitely be heard during the transition and preparation period,” he said.