World · Malaysia Bureau
Malaysia urged to offer RM1,000 tax rebate for air purifiers amid haze
A senior Malaysian politician has called for the government to introduce a RM1,000 tax rebate to help vulnerable groups purchase air purifiers as the country grapples with seasonal haze. The proposal aims to protect elderly citizens and young children from the health impacts of poor air quality.
LSN Malaysia ·
Lim Guan Eng has urged the Malaysian government to implement a tax rebate scheme to offset the cost of air purifier purchases, citing concerns over public health during the annual haze season. The proposed RM1,000 rebate would make air filtration devices more affordable for households struggling with air pollution.
According to the politician, the subsidy programme would primarily benefit vulnerable populations who face greater health risks from prolonged exposure to poor air quality. Elderly residents and small children are particularly susceptible to respiratory complications and other air quality-related ailments, he noted.
The call for financial assistance comes as Malaysia faces recurring episodes of transboundary haze, typically triggered by agricultural burning in neighbouring countries. Air purifiers have become increasingly common household items as families seek ways to protect their health during periods of elevated pollution levels.
Government support for such purchases would ease the financial burden on lower-income households and senior citizens living on fixed incomes, advocates argue. The proposal reflects growing recognition of the persistent nature of seasonal air quality challenges facing the region.