Traders raise doubts and concerns over GST

Published: Tuesday November 12, 2013 MYT 12:00:00 AM 

Updated: Tuesday November 12, 2013 MYT 7:10:31 AM

BY CHRISTINA TAN

More choices: Visitors looking at the products at 1Malaysia Trade Festival at BP Mall.

BATU PAHAT: Businesses and traders continued to raise concern over the government’s plan to implement the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in April 2015.

Batu Pahat Chinese Chamber of Commerce (CCCBP) president David Gan said although GST had been in practice in more than 160 countries, many were worried about the new tax system that replaces the existing sales and services tax.

“It is worrying especially on how the government will implement GST and whether it will lead to price hike.

“We hope the government will provide more information to the public and help to prepare them for the new tax system.

“The government should send the experts to the ground to train or teach the people on the new tax system to avoid confusion during its implementation,” he said before the opening of 1Malaysia Trade Festival organised by CCCBP at BP Mall.

The four-day event that started on Nov 7 was opened by vice president of the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia Datuk William Tan.

Activities at the event showcased products and services including food, restaurant and furniture by various companies at the 123 booths. There were also lucky draw, games and others activities.

Tan said the annual event was organised to provide a platform to the businesses and traders in the district to present their products to the public.

“From here, they can expand their businesses through other methods rather than relying on the traditional way that is to wait for the customers in the shops.

“The exhibition also allows businesses to exchange their knowledge and avoid unhealthy competition among themselves,” he said.

Tan added that the exhibition would also help to boost local tourism by attracting visitors to the district.