Rafizi Pushes GST Return in Shadow Budget

PUCHONG, Oct 8 — Former Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli reignited debate over fiscal reform by proposing the reintroduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) at a maximum rate of five per cent in the Bersama Shadow Budget 2027. Speaking at the party’s headquarters, Rafizi argued that politicians should not underestimate voters’ ability to understand difficult but necessary reforms.

“Kalau tanya kepada Datuk Seri Anwar ini sebagai Menteri Kewangan, dia akan kata kalau ikut kepala Rafizi, dia akan kalah sebagai Perdana Menteri,” Rafizi said, highlighting his frequent policy clashes with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. He added: “Saya tidak fikir kita patut terlalu merendahkan atau memandang rendah rakyat, kerana kita semua didorong oleh naluri asas manusia yang sama — kita mahu mendapatkan manfaat yang maksimum dan mendapat tawaran yang terbaik.”

GST Return

The shadow budget proposes phasing out certain cash handouts and fuel subsidies, including Budi95, in favour of targeted monthly assistance. Rafizi insisted that GST, capped at five per cent, would strengthen Malaysia’s fiscal position while ensuring fairer redistribution through institutionalised social safety nets.

He cited examples from the document, noting that B40 households could lose RM215 monthly from subsidy cuts but would gain RM582 in structured transfers, including fuel allowances, child support and pensions for eligible seniors. “Mereka mungkin perlu melepaskan RM215 sebulan… tetapi jika mereka menerima pindahan bulanan RM582, itu bermakna tambahan RM367,” Rafizi explained.

Rafizi stressed that if reforms are communicated clearly, voters may support them, as they would ultimately receive more consistent benefits under a restructured system.

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