As the 'face' of the goods and services tax (GST), Deputy Finance Minister Ahmad Maslan continues to draw fire from all quarters.

But the ever-smiling Umno leader said he makes it a point to tell himself every morning to be prepared to face all sorts of criticism for six months after the implementation of GST.

He also forgives those who call him "stupid" due to the issue.

"I forgive those who call me stupid. I just hope they understand more about GST especially since we face many unethical traders," he added.

Ahmad believes that he is still faring strong and is adamant that implementing GST was the right thing to do.

"I know it is not a popular thing (being spokesperson for GST). But at the same time, I know it is the right thing to do.

"If not, how come 170 countries have implemented GST?"  he told reporters in Permatang Pauh today.

On PKR which wanted him to resign over the fiasco involving prepaid top up cards, Ahmad said it was not him who wanted the post (as deputy finance minister), but it was the prime minister who appointed him.

As for the some 20,000 people who protested against the implementation of GST today, Ahmad told them to be patient and reminded them that it would take six months for things to stabilise

"For those who are demonstrating, I advise them to get the correct information on GST and understand that things will only stabilise in six months' time.

"Just look at the other countries. Japan took three months to stabilise but that's because it is a developed country. If we can be like them, then that would be good," he said.

Ahmad also took a dig at the protest, saying: "That day they targetted one million people."