SIBU: The implementation of the expanded Sales and Services Tax (SST) starting July 1 is expected to have a major impact on the people, especially the low-income group and rural communities, said Bukit Assek Assemblyman, Joseph Chieng Jin Ek.
He expressed concern over the layered pressure the people are facing due to the gradual reduction of subsidies and the continuous increase in the cost of living.
“Although the government stated that only non-essential goods and services would be taxed, the reality is that the people have to pay various bills and daily costs which are also affected,” said Chieng at the Gawai Ngiling Bidai dinner hosted by the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Bukit Assek branch at a local restaurant here yesterday.
Among the services that will be subject to SST are private medicine, construction, rentals, finance, and beauty – a move that he said will increase financial burdens, especially for rural residents who have already been affected by the abolition of previous subsidies.
“Egg subsidies will be completely abolished starting August 1. Diesel subsidies in the Peninsula have been terminated since June 2024.
“Even though it has not been implemented in Sarawak, the chain effect will definitely be felt, including increased logistical costs and prices of goods,” he added.
Chieng also urged the federal government to implement a more fair and equitable taxation policy and not focus the burden solely on the common people.
“It’s true that the government needs to increase revenue, but it must be done fairly.
“It is not right that only ordinary people bear the burden, while big companies and the wealthy are not held accountable in a balanced manner,” he said.
However, he also expressed appreciation for the concern of the Sarawak Government, which he said always takes proactive steps to help ease the people’s burden.
Among the initiatives he mentioned were the Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance Scheme (SKAS), the Senior Citizens Health Welfare Scheme (SCHB), and a RM1,200 assistance for Sarawak students who are continuing their studies at the tertiary level.
Chieng stressed that as a representative of the people, he will continue to fight for the rights and welfare of the Bukit Assek community, especially the longhouse and rural communities.
“I have submitted an application to add two more positions of longhouse chiefs in this area to strengthen the coordination of services.
“Every year, I allocate funds for the Home Improvement Programme (PPRMS) to help more of our Dayak brothers and sisters repair longhouses in this area,” he said.
Aware that, in addition to infrastructure development, more help and attention are needed, he assured that he will continue requesting additional resources from the Sarawak Government so that no one is left out or marginalised.
At the event, Chieng also presented certificates of appointment to six zone leaders appointed by the party to be responsible for looking after the welfare and matters relating to local residents.
