Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad lacks understanding about the new tax regime, the Goods and Services Tax (GST), said deputy Finance Minister Datuk Ahmad Maslan.

That is why he had suggested that the government cancels the GST which was implemented from Apr 1 and revert to the old taxation system (SST), he added.

“I think the people around him did not give him the proper explanation about GST. The GST percentage is much lower than SST. So, how can he say its better for the government to cancel GST?,” he asked when contacted.

Commenting on Dr Mahathir’s comment on Saturday, Ahmad urged those close to the former premier to offer him the right perspective of GST.

READ: Just scrap GST, Dr M says

When asked if Ahmad will spend some time to explain to Dr Mahathir on how the new tax system works, this is what he said:

“I think there is no need for that. He can understand it himself.”

“I think the people around him can offer better proper explanation without being influenced by the negative comments of the opposition on the GST and its implementation,” he added.

Ahmad was earlier reported saying that he would continue to offer explanation on GST and its implementation although several quarters have urged him to stop talking about the topic.

“Some had asked me to stop talking about GST. If I listen to them, then the Opposition will win with their lies and facts distortion which can affect the people’s minds,” he said.

READ: Public 'emotionally affected' by Ahmad Maslan's statement on GST - psychologist