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Malaysia is delaying price hikes as it grapples with US President Donald Trump’s tariffs that threaten to trigger a global economic slowdown. This includes revising plans to cut subsidies for RON95 petrol – the fuel most commonly used by Malaysian motorists – and postponing a planned expansion of the sales and services tax.
On top of tariffs and price hikes, local business owners are also concerned about a plan by Malaysia and China to extend a mutual visa-free scheme from 30 days to 90 days. They fear that the influx of mainland Chinese will lead to people working illegally while on tourist visas.
Meanwhile, Kuala Lumpur is doing its best to get on Washington’s good side, announcing on Monday an immediate change of rules to curb false labelling of transhipped items.
Follow ST’s coverage as we continue to bring you the latest developments.
After Trump tariffs, Malaysia to ease price hikes in bid to fuel economy
Plans to cut RON95 petrol subsidies for those in the top 15% income bracket are unlikely to go ahead in June.
Malaysia tightens rules on trans-shipment of foreign goods amid growing scrutiny by US authorities
The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry will be the sole issuer of certificates of origin.
Small businesses see red over plan to extend visa-free scheme for Chinese visitors
3.7 million mainland Chinese tourists visited Malaysia in 2024 – a 131 per cent increase from 2023.
GPs rally against lack of consultation on new drug-price display law, call for fee review
They want a review of the GP consultation fee range, which has not been revised since 1992.
Malaysia to spend RM40m to repair homes damaged by gas pipeline inferno in Selangor
The government has not determined the cause of the blast that damaged 219 homes and forced 455 people to flee.
You can’t stop China from growing, says ex-Malaysian PM Mahathir
