With SST rising from 6% to 8%, critics demand true reform while universities assess financial strain on students.

Sales and Service Tax Hike Faces Criticism
As of July 1, Malaysians are paying 8% SST instead of 6%—but the decision is being challenged as insufficient and regressive. Analysts argue that this won’t fix structural fiscal issues and may deepen inequality.

Calls for Reform Intensify
Experts call for a roadmap: phased subsidy rationalisation, tax reforms, and possibly a reintroduction of GST with fairer implementation.

Ministry Probes SST’s Impact on Students
The Higher Education Ministry has tasked universities to determine how the expanded SST scope affects students. This includes costs for digital services, laundry, electronics, and rental utilities. Results will guide upcoming policies ahead of the Higher Education Blueprint 2025–2035.

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