PETALING JAYA — In an effort to reassure Malaysians amidst concerns about rising costs, the Finance Ministry has stepped forward to clarify what the newly expanded Sales and Service Tax (SST) will mean for everyday shoppers. The good news? Your kitchen staples are still safe.
The Ministry emphasized that the new 5% SST will apply to goods that are locally produced or imported—but not everything will be affected.
“If the fruits are imported, they will be subject to the 5% sales tax,” the Ministry explained. But for fruits grown right here on our soil, Malaysians can breathe easy—no tax will be applied. This means enjoying a fresh local mango or a bunch of bananas won’t cost you more under the new tax changes.
And it doesn’t stop there.
Key essentials like rice, wheat, sugar, salt, and meat—especially those brought in from abroad—will remain tax-exempt. The government considers these items vital for daily living, and wants to ensure every family can still afford them.
Even cooking essentials like locally made or imported palm oil and refined sugar will stay off the tax list.
The expanded SST, which officially takes effect on July 1, is part of a broader government effort to improve national finances by widening the tax net. But the Finance Ministry is making it clear: while the country works towards a stronger economic future, the people’s access to affordable basic necessities won’t be compromised.
This move reflects a balancing act—protecting citizens from extra costs while still addressing the nation’s financial needs.
