With the recent scrapping of the KL-Singapore High Speed Rail (HSR) project, loads of Malaysians are wondering what other projects will be abolished by the new government in efforts to save money.
In a press conference earlier this afternoon (30th May), prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad announced that apart from the HSR project, the Mass Rapid Transit Line 3 (MRT3) project will also be scrapped. The reasoning behind this was to cut costs given the country’s debts. He was quoted as saying,
“We’re not only looking at HSR, but also other big projects that cost us a lot of money.”
Source: NST | Twitter
However, as for the HSR project, Tun Mahathir clarified that the government would revisit this project once Malaysia is in a better financial position.
On top of that, the prime minister announced that while the Goods and Services Tax (GST) will be officially abolished on 1st June this year, the Sales and Services Tax (SST) will be implemented on 1st September 2018.
Besides that, an official fund called “Tabung Harapan Malaysia” will be set up for citizens who wish to donate money to help with repaying the country’s debts.
Earlier this week, Segambut MP and Selangor state speaker, Hannah Yeoh, advised Malaysians willing to contribute to help with our national debts to be wary of scams, saying,
“If anybody sees people soliciting money online on behalf of the government, it’s best not to respond. Wait for an official announcement by the cabinet.”
As for other updates, the Communications and Multimedia Minister, Gobind Singh Deo announced at the press conference that this year’s world cup will be aired for free on RTM1.
JUST IN: The World Cup will be aired for free over RTM1 this year. pic.twitter.com/KUfafIj3JK
— Sumisha Naidu (@SumishaCNA) May 30, 2018
So, it looks like there will be a number of changes happening within the next few months! Let’s hope these transitions take place smoothly!
Also read: GST Will Now Be Reduced to 0% Starting 1 June 2018, Says MOF
