Malaysia

Dewan Rakyat to probe taxation of foreign online sellers on rising key economic, social concerns

Malaysia’s lower house turns its attention to digital-economy taxation, agricultural pressures and reforms to family and child-protection laws as today’s sitting opens with a packed agenda

Updated 9 months ago · Published on 25 Nov 2025 8:29AM

Dewan Rakyat to probe taxation of foreign online sellers on rising key economic, social concerns
MP questions minister on declining padi yield - November 25, 2025

THE Dewan Rakyat is expected to undertake a detailed examination of how Sales and Services Tax (SST) is collected from foreign online sellers and digital platforms, forming one of several major issues set for debate today.

According to the Order Paper, Tan Hong Pin (PH–Bakri) will press the Finance Minister for clarity on the government’s mechanism for imposing SST or other taxes on online transactions made through foreign-based platforms.

He is also seeking the total revenue collected between 2021 and 2025, as well as an explanation of which imported goods purchased through foreign portals are exempt from SST and the rationale for such exemptions.

In a separate line of questioning, Datuk Dr Zulkafperi Hanapi (Tanjong Karang) is expected to challenge the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security on the sector’s declining padi yields, the growing dependence on foreign labour and the increasing practice of cash crops being planted on padi land.

He has warned that the problem is compounded by an ageing farming population and the reluctance of younger Malaysians to remain in the agricultural workforce.

The oral question session will also see Aminolhuda Hassan (PH–Sri Gading) urge the Prime Minister to outline plans to strengthen Islamic family law to make parental maintenance mandatory, particularly for elderly parents who have no income or means to support themselves.

Dr Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen (PH–Bandar Kuching) will pose another question to the Prime Minister, asking whether the government intends to introduce new legislation aimed at curbing bullying, especially cases involving children.

Following the oral questions, the sitting will continue with the committee-stage debate on the Supply Bill (Budget 2026). - November 25, 2025

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