La Bodega under probe for collecting GST

PETALING JAYA: A high-end restaurant in Bangsar is under investigation after discrepancies in its prices went viral on social media.
The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry has ordered the La Bodega restaurant in Bangsar Shopping Complex, Kuala Lumpur, to submit all relevant documents to explain these discrepancies within five working days.
Acting promptly on public uproar over the difference in prices shown on two separate receipts for the same item, the ministry officers visited the outlet yesterday at 8.45pm to investigate the matter.
The eatery had collected the 6% in Goods and Services Tax (GST) by absorbing it into the price of its food item, despite the government zero-rating it from June 1 onwards.
"Our checks showed that the premise still used old menu books where prices are inclusive of 6% GST.
"They have been advised to change their menu books," the ministry said in a statement on its official Facebook page.
It said that according to La Bodega, the difference in prices was due to a problem with the streamlining of prices at its headquarters.
The ministry also said the price on the receipt showed a 6% manual deduction as the branch is still waiting for an overall system change from its headquarters.
"Notice S21 has been issued to the management to submit the relevant documents to the ministry within five working days and to explain clearly the differences in prices as stated in the complaint," it said.
The restaurant's menu and receipts have been seized for further investigations.