Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak has asked the people to boycott “unscrupulous” traders who exploit the goods and services tax (GST).

“The problem with GST is not with the concept but with the unethical behaviour of some traders who have taken advantage. That is where the problem lies.

“I urge all of us consumers to play a part, play a role and put pressure. Don’t buy from them (traders) if they continue to exploit GST,” he said during his speech at the Asean Business Awards tonight.

Najib also said the implementation of GST was well-thought-out by the government to bring a positive economic effect to the country.

“Many think it could have been a political disaster but we must have the moral conviction and courage to do what is right for the people and country.

“GST will be good for the nation. We believe in the long term, we believe in a reasonable span of time GST will strengthen the revenue base of the country,” he said.

The premier also believes the GST implementation will also help improve the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).

“Once GST is fully implemented, we estimate that GDP will increase by 0.3 percent and exports by 0.5 percent.

“This is the long-term benefit of all Malaysians and that is what will always be the top priority of my government,” Najib said.

GST was introduced by Putrajaya on April 1 despite much objection from the public and the opposition.

Numerous problems have arisen from the tax introduction. However, the government has maintained that it will all smoothen out in a span of a year after GST was introduced.