News

The 8% Era Is Here: SST Just Got A Glow-Up, But What Changes?

As of 1st July 2025, Malaysia officially entered the 8% era and no, we’re not talking about a new Gen Z aesthetic or a K-pop debut. It’s the Sales and Service Tax (SST) increase that’s got everyone side-eyeing their bills.

If you’re a student, fresh grad, freelancer, or just vibing through your 20s, here’s how the tax tweak might hit your everyday lifestyle and what you don’t actually need to panic about.

Wait… What Even Is SST?

SST = Sales and Service Tax. It’s a tax added to certain products and services in Malaysia.
Before July, the service tax was 6%, but now it’s 8% for most taxable services.
It’s not a flat tax on everything and your ayam goreng or bubble tea isn’t affected (for now).

Why Should Teens & Young Adults Care?

Because this change hits your lifestyle, not just your parents’ wallets. Here’s where it might show up:

1. Your Streaming Life Just Got Taxed

If you’re subscribed to Netflix, Disney+, or Spotify Premium, yup, it’s now 8% SST instead of 6%.
Noticed a slightly higher monthly fee? That’s why.

RM54.90 Netflix Plan?
Before: RM58.19 with 6% SST
Now: RM59.29 with 8% SST
(Difference: RM1.10/month)
Multiply that by all your subscriptions, and it adds up.

2. Staycations Just Got a Bit Pricier

Hotels, Airbnbs, or spa retreats with your besties = 8% SST now.
If you’re planning a quick Genting or Langkawi trip, you might feel the difference in total cost.

3. Freelancers & Side Hustlers: Heads Up!

If you offer freelance services (design, editing, writing, etc.), and you’re registered under SST, your clients will now be charged 8%, not 6%.
More paperwork, slightly higher prices, and possibly new invoices needed.

5. Tuition, Exams, & Digital Tools

Most education stuff like school fees are still exempt.
But if you’re attending private workshops, buying e-learning tools or software (like Canva Pro or Adobe), these might now include the 8% SST if billed in Malaysia.

What’s Not Affected?

Take a breather. These are still SST-exempt:

  • Essential groceries (rice, eggs, cooking oil)
  • Utilities (electricity under 600kWh/month)
  • Public transport
  • Government healthcare & public education

So What Can You Do?

💡 Tips to manage the SST increase
🧾 Review your app subscriptions, cancel the ones you don’t use.
🛍️ Don’t impulse buy online without checking the breakdown.
💸 Track your expenses using free apps (like Spendee or Money Lover).
🤝 Share subscriptions with family/friends where possible.

SST has increased to 8%, but only on specific services. You will feel it on your tech subs, hotel stays, and some digital tools but your bubble tea, haircuts, and campus Wi-Fi are safe.

Stay woke, stay budgeting, and keep your receipts.

nur

Recent Posts

Xiaomi Redefines Tech Retail With Its Largest Retail Store at The Exchange TRX

Xiaomi is excited to announce the upcoming grand opening of its second flagship retail store… Read More

3 hours ago

Front Row or Nosebleed? With HUAWEI Pura 80 Ultra, Every Seat Is VIP

Tour, every moment felt larger than life. Yet not everyone in the crowd went home… Read More

3 hours ago

TMT and Courts Malaysia Launch LivinTech Expo 2025 Nation’s Largest Tech Showcase at Pavilion Bukit Jalil

Malaysia’s leading technology retailer, TMT by Thunder Match, is proud to present LivinTech Expo 2025,… Read More

4 hours ago

PM Anwar Unveils People-Centric Measures: RM100 Cash Aid, Lower Petrol Prices, & More

PM Anwar Unveils People-Centric Measures: RM100 Cash Aid, Lower Petrol Prices, & More In a… Read More

13 hours ago

Game, Set, Green! Malaysia Hosts First-Ever Clean-Energy Pickleball Tournament Powered by Solarvest

Sports and sustainability have officially teamed up in Malaysia with the launch of the Solarvest… Read More

1 day ago

JAECOO J8 Launches in Malaysia, Where First Class Meets Off-Road Mastery

The Malaysian SUV landscape just gained a new benchmark. OMODA | JAECOO Malaysia has officially… Read More

1 day ago

This website uses cookies.