GST to make comeback only when timing is right, says Rafizi

PETALING JAYA: The Goods and Services Tax (GST) will only be reintroduced when the time is right, says Rafizi Ramli.

The Economy Minister told Sinar Harian during an economic forum on Tuesday (Feb 28) that if implemented, GST will be progressive in nature and not just to increase government funds.

"It's something we might look into, but until then, we have a 12 to 15 months’ time span to improve the economy as it is. I'm confident we can manage our national expenses better this time," he said.

Rafizi said that he believes that GST rates would be exorbitant if the government doesn't first address internal issues on administration and national spending.

He added that several steps have to be taken prior to reintroducing GST to ensure everything runs more smoothly.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had said the government doesn't plan to reintroduce GST after it was abolished by the Pakatan Harapan administration in 2018.