Penang CM slams Putrajaya over new levy rates

GEORGE TOWN: Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng lambasted Putrajaya over the new levy rate for foreign workers, saying it is not the right time to do so for now.
Lim said the country is currently hampered with economy downturn and the people would be further burdened with the sudden hike which came into effect on Feb 1.
He said the increased rate should only been done at a more appropriate timing instead of during times when people are tightening their belts.
"It should be done when economy improves and not now, " he said after launching the the Taman Cantik neighbourhood park in Air Putih today.
He was commenting after the new rate came into effect on Feb 1 had irked some businesses as they deemed it as uncalled for.
Under the new rate, manufacturing and construction sectors will have to pay RM2,500 (up from RM1,250), RM2,500 (from RM1,850) for services sector, and RM1,500 (from RM590) for plantation and agriculture sectors.
However, the government been reportedly saying they were willingly to look into the dissatisfaction of the employers on the new rate for foreign workers.
Lim, nonetheless, was not pleased with the explanation by the federal government, further adding that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) tax regime must be abolished to lighten the burden of the people.
In another development, Lim advised the people to practice clean and hygiene lifestyle to avoid of being contracted with dengue.
He said this outbreak was currently worrying in the state as eight deaths due to dengue been recorded up to date.
"Seek the doctor immediately if feeling unwell, " he advised to the people. while stressed environment in the house must be kept clean.