Meaningful ‘pain’ that must be borne


Funding the nation: Money is needed for public services, education, and healthcare reforms, while new challenges such as artificial intelligence technology and digitalisation also demand the disbursement of funds. — 123rf

TAXATION in any form and name is never popular, and the expansion of the sales and service tax (SST) is no exception. It is unpopular, full stop.

Nobody likes taxes but there is no such thing as looking for a better time in the future to impose the taxes for the government to increase revenue.

Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 11.12/month

Billed as RM 11.12 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 9.87/month

Billed as RM 118.40 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
Wong Chun Wai

Wong Chun Wai

Wong Chun Wai began his career as a journalist in Penang and served Star Media Group for nearly four decades in various capacities and roles. He was group editorial and corporate affairs adviser to the group, after having served as group managing director/chief executive officer. "On The Beat" debuted on Feb 23, 1997. Chun Wai has penned the column weekly without a break, except for occasional press holidays when the paper was not published. In May 2011, a compilation of selected articles of On The Beat was published as a book and launched in conjunction with his 50th birthday. Chun Wai also comments on current issues in The Star. He is now chairman of national news agency Bernama.

Next In Columnists

Historic street bridges banking eras
Home is where the points are – but not always anymore
Sarjit’s journey from Batu Pahat to Barcelona and back
This is my country, too!
A Merdeka peace of mind
Having the balls to talk health: Why boys need testicular awareness
When a neighbour’s political culture starts to look familiar
The legal meaning of ‘Merdeka’
Minding our diplomatic language
What should ‘Merdeka’ mean to us?

Others Also Read