KUCHING: Non-alcoholic beverages will only be subject to a six per cent Sales and Service Tax (SST), said Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Public Complaints Bureau Chief Milton Foo.
In a statement, Foo said the Customs Department had updated its Food and Beverage Guidelines, with the latest version dated April 19, 2024, superseding the previous one issued on April 16.
“The revised guidelines clearly state that non-alcoholic drinks will be taxed at six per cent, not eight per cent as previously announced,” he said.
Foo explained that the confusion arose from the initial guidelines he presented at a press conference the day before.
“The Customs Department has since clarified that the newer guidelines are definitive.”
He expressed relief that the issue has been resolved, as it had caused unnecessary worry among restaurant and catering operators.
He stressed the importance of public awareness about consumer rights and government taxation policies, especially on food and beverages.
“I urge the government to be more careful when issuing tax policies and guidelines, particularly those affecting the public,” he added.
