GST IMPLEMENTATION IS TO PLACE MALAYSIA AT PAR WITH DEVELOPED COUNTRIES

IPOH (Malaysia), Dec 19 (Bernama) -- The implementation of the goods and
services tax (GST)is a means of placing the country's economy at a level that is
at par with those of developed nations and in keeping with changing times, said
Second Finance Minister, Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah.

He said the GST implementation gave the government an advantage,particularly
in enhancing income flow, which can then be used to implement projects for the
benefit of the people.

"Only three countries in the South-East Asian region do not practice this
taxation system, that is Malaysia, Brunei and Myanmar. Brunei does not have a
taxation system and we will join 143 other countries in implementing the GST.

"We need to change to ensure we stay in the best grouping," he told
reporters after a gathering at a parliamentary constituency mobile service
centre here Saturday.

He said the people were becoming more rational now and the efforts of
specific groups who want the government to postpone or review the
implementation, must have a strong reason and basis.

Ahmad Husni said the GST system to be introduced by the government is at
four per cent to replace the sales and service tax at between five and 10 per
cent at present, to increase the effectiveness of the country's revenue
collection.

"We believe the collection from the GST will be given back to the people,"
he said.
-- BERNAMA