Barisan Nasional (BN) has pledged that assessment tax in Negri Sembilan will not be increased for five years if the coalition regains control of the state following the election.
Negri Sembilan BN chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said the state government should focus on boosting revenue through development and economic growth rather than depending on higher taxes imposed on the people.
He said increasing taxes should not be the main approach to raising state income, adding that development projects and stronger economic activities would create more sustainable revenue sources.
“We will not increase assessment tax for the next five years. We want to increase the state’s revenue, but not by taxing the people.
“We want to grow state revenue through development because development will generate income, not by placing a heavier burden on the public,” he said.
Mohamad, who is also the BN candidate for the Rantau state seat, made the remarks during a programme with the Indian community in Taman Intan, Rantau, last night.
He also stressed that small businesses should be encouraged, provided operators comply with safety and cleanliness requirements.
According to Mohamad, individuals should be given opportunities to earn income through small-scale businesses, especially during challenging economic conditions.
He gave the example of individuals who are skilled at preparing food such as nasi lemak and traditional kuih, saying they should be allowed to turn their abilities into business opportunities.
Mohamad said the government must find ways to increase revenue through economic activities and development instead of introducing additional taxes that could further affect people facing rising living costs.
He added that the state and country should be managed like a business entity, where revenue is generated through productive activities rather than relying heavily on taxation.
