Kuala lumpur: The government upholds transparency and is ready to accept any criticism regarding the taxation system, provided it is based on facts, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, emphasized that criticisms should be conveyed through proper channels and not take the form of slander or verbal abuse.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar referenced complaints from some university students about the electricity bill adjustment, expressing confusion as electricity rates have not increased. He stressed the necessity of addressing genuine concerns, particularly since public universities are exempt from such adjustments. “If it’s true, then we need to fix it,” Anwar stated during his speech at a gathering with staff of the Prime Minister’s Department.

Anwar further noted that issues, when spread under the guise of freedom, can devolve into slander and verbal abuse. He urged the public, including university students, to provide factual evidence when raising concerns. “I have no issue with people complaining or offering criticism,” he reiterated, highlighting the importance of factual discourse.

The Prime Minister explained that the adjustment of electricity tariffs and the expansion of the Sales and Service Tax (SST) are measures aimed at ensuring those with higher financial means contribute fairly, while safeguarding vulnerable segments from undue financial pressure. He stated, “If possible, we don’t want to burden the people with taxes. But if there are one or two cases where people are affected, we can make improvements.”

The government had announced on June 9 a targeted review of the Sales Tax rate and an expansion of the Service Tax scope, effective from July 1. Complementing this, the Energy Commission declared on June 13 that over 23.6 million domestic users in Peninsular Malaysia would benefit from a more equitable and progressive electricity tariff structure, approved to be implemented from July 1, 2025, to December 31, 2027.