PUTRAJAYA – Even the prime minister has to pay customs duty, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, as he shares how he was taxed RM500 for a barrel of olive oil gifted by a friend from an Arab country.
“The gift was given a few years ago when I was the opposition leader. It was not taxed then. But in the few months after I was appointed prime minister, the Customs Department imposed a duty fee of RM500.
“I don’t use that oil for business, it is for home use. If the prime minister also has to pay taxes, other citizens should also fulfil their obligations.”
He said this in his speech at the 42nd World Customs Day celebration here today.
He then took a swipe at those who evade taxes but were willing to shell out money for luxury items.
“Some feel they are invincible when they become prime minister…buying luxury goods but refusing to pay taxes.”
The Customs Department will implement a high-value goods tax starting May 1 at the rate of between 5% and 10%.
On October 13, Anwar in tabling Budget 2024 announced that the government would enact new legislation to tax certain luxury goods, such as jewellery and watches, based on the threshold value of the goods. – January 23, 2024