Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced that imported apples and oranges will now be exempted from the Sales and Services Tax (SST), a move aimed at easing the burden on consumers.
According to Sin Chew Daily, the announcement was made during the launch of the Kota Madani development project in Precinct 19, Putrajaya, where Anwar addressed attendees on a range of economic and public welfare matters.
Local fruits are just as nutritious
While apples are often promoted as a symbol of healthy eating – thanks to the popular saying ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’, Anwar took the opportunity to remind Malaysians that local fruits are just as nutritious, if not better.
It’s not necessarily true that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. In fact, a banana a day might be even better – it’s high in potassium and better for your health.”
He emphasised that Malaysia’s own fruits such as bananas, guavas, and papayas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, and encouraged the public to prioritise local produce.
The exemption of SST for apples and oranges, which are among the most commonly imported fruits in Malaysia, is expected to help lower prices and improve affordability for consumers, especially in urban areas.
