Taxation in Malaysia

Taxation in Malaysia is a vital component of the country's economic framework, serving as a primary source of revenue for the government. Understanding the various income tax laws and regulations is essential for individuals and businesses to ensure compliance and contribute to the nation's growth and prosperity.

Personal Income Tax

  • Malaysian/Resident Employees
    • Stay more than 182 days in a calendar year
    • Progressive tax rate (0 – 30%)
  • Non resident employees
    • Stay less than 182 days in calendar year
    • Fixed Tax Rate (30%)

Income Tax Table 2025

Chargeable Income (RM)Calculations (RM)Rate %Tax (RM)
0 – 5,000On the first 5,00000
5,001 – 20,000On the first 5,0000
Next 15,0001150
20,001 – 35,000On the first 20,000150
Next 15,0003450
35,001 – 50,000On the first 35,000600
Next 15,0006900
50,001 – 70,000On the first 50,0001500
Next 20,000112200
70,001 – 100,000On the first 70,0003700
Next 30,000195700
100,001 – 400,000On the first 100,0009400
Next 300,0002575000
400,001 – 600,000On the first 400,00084400
Next 200,0002652000
600,001 – 2,000,000On the first 600,000136400
Next 1,400,00028392000
Exceeding 2,000,000On the first 2,000,000528400
Public Holiday – all ordinary hoursEvery next ringgit30

 

Taxable Treatment – New Hire

Form CP22 – Notification of new employees under Section 83(2) of the Income Tax Act 1967.

The Employer must submit the form within 30 days from the commencement of employment. If failed, would be liable to a fine of not less than RM 200 and not more than RM 20,000 or to imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or both. The employer is also responsible for any tax due to the above mentioned.

The notification CP 22 form can be submitted:

Through the e-CP22 application (encouraged) on the MyTax portal; or to the IRB office that handles the employer’s file or any nearby IRB office.

 

Tax Treatment  – Termination/Cessation of Employment

The table below is a general guide for employers to determine whether forms CP22A / CP22B notification is required to be submitted:

Based on the table above, employers are required to submit Form CP22A / CP22B through e-SPC for termination cases that subject for tax clearance.

 

Tax Treatment  – Termination/Cessation of Employment – Leaving country for more than 3 months

The employer is required to withhold any monies payable to an employee who is about to leave Malaysia for a period of more than 3 months with no intention of returning. The employer shall not pay any such money, except with the permission of the IRBM, to or for the benefit of the employee until 90 days after the receipt by the IRBM of the form.

The table below is a general guide for employers to determine whether forms CP21 notification is required to be submitted:

From 1 January 2024, Form CP22A / CP21 is mandatory to be submitted online through MyTax portal using e-SPC application. To expedite the tax clearance process, the employer or employee may visit the IRBM office which handles the employee’s income tax number after submitting the online CP22A or CP21.

 

Annual Returns Declaration

Employers must submit Form E by March 31st of the following year, declaring the annual returns of all employees. This ensures compliance with income tax regulations and maintains financial transparency.

 

New Hires Compliance

Employers must submit Form CP22 within one month of a new employee’s start date. Failure to comply may result in fines, imprisonment, and the obligation to resolve outstanding taxes promptly.

 

Effects of Resignation or Termination

When an employee resigns or is terminated, employers must submit Form CP22A to the Inland Revenue Board along with the appropriate taxes. For employees leaving Malaysia permanently or for more than three months, Form CP21 must also be submitted.

 

Compliance and Best Practices

Understanding and following monthly deductions, annual income tax rates, and procedures for new hires or terminations are crucial for tax compliance. Both employers and employees must adhere to these regulations to avoid penalties and maintain a robust tax system.

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Navigating taxation in Malaysia involves understanding various tax obligations and ensuring compliance. By staying informed and following the correct procedures, employers and employees can contribute to a transparent and effective tax system.

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Please note that all the information listed below are to be used as a general guideline. For more detailed accounts of Malaysia employment laws and regulations, please visit the official governmental websites.

Updated on: March 2025