I AM writing as a concerned citizen on the proposed implementation of the goods and sales tax (GST).

Although there are fears of it turning out to be a regressive tax, there has not been much effort to dispel any myth or educate the rakyat on the allegedly misunderstood GST. Please don’t get me wrong, I am by no means promoting the implementation of GST. What I’m simply saying is that while education should be free and available for all, the government fails to fully illuminate us on this vital issue. Again, are we expected to consent to something when we are not well informed about it? There are a multitude of countervailing considerations to be ventilated on this including its suitability in our circumstances.

However, while such tax is extolled by eminent economists, it is difficult to fathom that the consequences of GST are not going to affect our pockets adversely; albeit the information will be useful. We are told it will only affect consumers but are the rakyat not the consumers? Consumers from every industry and sector (be it property, medical, finance, etc) are inevitably going to feel its effects more directly and immediately than one who is telling how profitable this idea of GST may be for the future. It is almost impossible to see the prospects of GST and be one with a vision when there is inexorable need to work, survive in today’s fast-moving world and feed the family.

Trust in the government is what is lacking and desperately wanting in this country. Trust of the rakyat in its elected government is not fostered through promises or a recitation of what its intent for the GST may be amid grievances and political woes the rakyat has come to know thus far. For instance, the passing of a Freedom of Information Act in this country is long overdue. Why has there been hesitation on the part of the government? Or why doesn’t the government render attractive remuneration to boost improvements in the civil service and police force?

Carolyn Cheah
Kuala Lumpur

Source: The Sun – November 30, 2009