20 April 2019

Press Statement by MCA National Youth Chairperson Nicole Wong Siaw Ting

A new tax to protect third national car?

The introduction of a new tax on imported used cars is an ill-conceived move, especially since two new taxes (the departure levy and the sugar tax for beverages) had just been passed in the Dewan Rakyat.

Reportedly, this tax has been implemented since March 1st, at a rate between 20% and 39% depending on the model of the imported used car.

The government needs to come clean on whether this new tax is the first step taken to protect the third national car project; just like how it was with Proton and Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad during his first tenure and Prime Minister.

I believe the Pakatan Harapan government is in need of some reminding that, last year, a promise was made that no public funds will be involved. Last March, Entrepreneur Development Minister Dato’ Seri Mohd Redzuan Md Yusof announced an allocation of RM20 million to develop its prototype.

Why does the government so intently want to realise the personal ambition of the Prime Minister despite drawing heavy objections from everyone?

In the midst of an ailing economy, and a currency labelled the “Asia’s worst performer” by Bloomberg, the government should be taking measures to revitalise our national economy to reattract foreign investors; not obsessing over the aspirations of an individual.

Imposing tight controls upon imported goods, and in this case, cars, will definitely impact our automobile industry; denying the means to most Malaysians in owning a foreign car due to steep pricing. Without a doubt, this move will further drive foreign investments away from Malaysia.

Nicole Wong Siaw Ting
MCA National Youth Chairperson

 -MCA online-