KUALA LUMPUR: Discussions on the delivery mechanism for targeted subsidies are at 75% progress with just a few issues remaining, says Deputy Finance Minister I Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan.
Among them is the method of implementation, he told reporters after a signing ceremony at Parliament here on Wednesday (May 24).
“The decision (to implement targeted subsidies) has been agreed in principle. However, some details have yet to be finalised.
“Whether to use identification cards, special cards, or (base it on vehicle) engine capacity... not decided yet,” he said, referring to RON95 and diesel subsidies.
Ahmad said the government was aware of concerns over the parameters of socioeconomic classification.
“We are aware that there were concerns, especially among those on the borderline of T20.
“There are other considerations that we need to discuss such as the number of dependents, among others,” he added.
He said the completed mechanism could be presented during the tabling of Budget 2024.
"This usually will be in October or November," he added.
Earlier, Ahmad represented Malaysia in signing an agreement on the elimination of double taxation on income, and the prevention of tax evasion and avoidance with the Republic of Maldives.
The agreement aims to avoid double taxation on the same income in Malaysia and the Maldives, providing tax certainty to taxpayers in both countries.
Maldives was represented by its Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer.
