Tyrannical Tax:  GST Return and the Price for Bersama, Rafizi

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 8, 2026 — Rafizi Ramli’s latest call to reintroduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) at a capped rate of five per cent marks a striking departure from his earlier crusade against the levy. Once among the most vocal critics of GST during its 2015 rollout, Rafizi had branded the tax regressive, warning it would disproportionately burden low-income households and erode public trust in government. His rejection of GST became a rallying cry for Pakatan Harapan, helping the coalition galvanise voter anger and eventually push for its abolition in 2018.

Rafizi Ramli argued that the consumption tax was regressive, driven by government overspending, and bound to increase the financial burden on ordinary Malaysians. 

NO TO GST?

GST Return

Now, in the Bersama Shadow Budget 2027, Rafizi argues that GST can be reintroduced responsibly if paired with targeted social safety nets. “Saya tidak fikir kita patut terlalu merendahkan atau memandang rendah rakyat,” he said, insisting voters could accept reforms if benefits were clearly explained. He pointed to structured monthly transfers that would leave B40 households better off despite losing blanket subsidies.

Critics, however, see Rafizi’s pivot as politically risky. By embracing a tax he once fought to dismantle, he risks alienating supporters who viewed him as a champion of populist resistance. The move underscores a deeper clash with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, whom Rafizi accuses of prioritising votes over policy.

#latestmaaysia

Rafizi Sues Caprice Over Alleged Corruption Claims