Implementation of cigarette tax will affect tourist arrivals - Tun M

KUALA LUMPUR:The implementation of cigarette and tobacco tax in tax-free areas such as Langkawi will affect the presence of tourists in the future.

Langkawi Member of Parliament, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said as a tax-free island, Langkawi cannot enjoy the sale of duty-free cigarettes.

"If this is done, the tourism industry will be affected.

“It has decreased at this time too while Langkawi is a green area and free from the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic," he said while debating the Supply Bill 2021 for the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) at the committee stage, on Thursday.

The former Prime Minister also expressed concern following the implementation which started last January.

At the same time, Dr Mahathir asked the government to relax the conditions by allowing those from the red zone who are free from COVID-19 to travel to Langkawi.

"In addition, because many places on the mainland are not clean and not free, tourists cannot come and this is detrimental to Langkawi.

"I also hope the government focuses on the development of Langkawi and not allow harsh and strict restrictions," he said.