Jamus Lim proposes having a wealth tax in Singapore

Jamus Lim wealth tax

In Parliament on 1 Nov, Workers’ Party MP Jamus Lim proposed imposing a wealth tax ranging 0.5 to 2 per cent in Singapore. He said this could help diversify Singapore’s revenue sources and reduce income and wealth inequality. Jamus also argued that the GST affects lower-middle and middle-income families disproportionately.

He proposed a tax of 0.5 per cent on net wealth in excess of $10 million, rising to 1 per cent for wealth above $50 million and 2 per cent for wealth above $1 billion. The tax may then be designated to a special purpose foundation with the money going towards national priorities.

Is having a wealth tax fair?

Bearing in mind that we are already taxed according to our income levels, a wealth tax will be an additional tax on those who have more than $10 million. It also means that those who may not have an income, ie. those who obtained their wealth through inheritance, will be taxed as well via the wealth tax.

This means that an individual who has accrued substantial wealth by earning his own income will be taxed twice according to Jamus Lim’ proposal. Once for income tax, another for the wealth tax.

Needless to say, these different percentiles add up to quite a hefty sum…

What would the rich do?

The rich obviously, are not unintelligent people. They are likely to max out their chances at escaping all these additional taxes.

Here are some netizens’ comments to Jamus Lim’s proposal:

Jamus Lim wealth tax

We like this sarcastic comment. Indeed. If we over-tax our rich, we simply cause them to leave or to possibly park their money overseas. As a result, we get less tax from the rich as this netizen has explained.

Jamus Lim wealth tax

And like this netizen has pointed out, the rich will take away their investments and businesses when they leave Singapore. This takes away jobs from Singaporeans who need them.

Another netizen also pointed out that the highest income bracket in Singapore has been raised from 18% to 22%.

Why GST and Comcare instead?

Jamus Lim’s idea may not be fair as it leads to a possible over-taxation on the wealthy. In addition, as explained, we do not wish to drive away our rich who contribute to investments and jobs.

Instead, the Government imposes GST on everyone as it is a consumption tax that is fairer. The more you consume and purchase, the more you pay GST.

The GST vouchers that are given to those living in HDB flats are also tiered accordingly, so that more assistance will be given to those who need it. Coupled with Comcare, those in the lower income bracket receive more help and assistance from the Government. They are also exempted from having to pay income tax.

Jamus Lim in review on year on: tracing his journey from GE2020

Share:

On Key

Related Posts