SANDAKAN: Sabah Progressive Democratic Party (SAPP) Vice President and Tanjong Papat Division Chief Thomas Lau Chi Keong has called on the Federal Government to reconsider the timing of implementing the 10% Sales and Services Tax (SST) on stationery products, which took effect on July 1.
He said the sudden policy shift has severely impacted both the economy and daily life, triggering a chain reaction of price hikes that disproportionately affect the public—particularly lower-income groups.
“This tax increase doesn’t just hurt families and small businesses; it also strikes at the heart of the education sector,” Lau said.
“Stationery like A4 and B4 paper, printing materials, and exercise books are essentials for students and office workers. With a 10% SST, costs will escalate throughout the supply chain, and consumers will end up paying the price.”
Lau emphasized that the government should avoid rolling out tax changes without prior consultation, clear communication, or a reasonable transition period.
“Even within the ruling coalition, there’s dissent,” he noted, referencing Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng (DAP)—elder brother of Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying—who publicly criticized the move and pushed for a delay. “This internal opposition speaks volumes.”
He urged authorities to heed public feedback, especially from grassroots communities, and assess the broader repercussions of the 10% SST, particularly on education and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Lau concluded by urging policymakers to explore more flexible and balanced solutions to prevent exacerbating the financial strain on ordinary Malaysians.
The GRS Government is a caring government and will closely monitor the situation, ensuring the well-being of the people remains a top priority, he added. – James Leong
