KUALA LUMPUR: More than 52,000 taxpayers have come forward to make voluntary declarations, with RM1.009bil in tax payable recorded following the implementation of the e-Invois initiative, says Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.
The Finance Minister II described the initiative as one of the most significant reforms in the country’s tax administration, saying it has strengthened Malaysia’s tax compliance framework while enhancing transparency, data integrity and efficiency.
“The e-Invois initiative not only enhances transparency but also improves data integrity while supporting a more efficient and technology-driven approach to tax compliance and administration,” he said when opening the 26th National Tax Conference here yesterday.
The e-Invois Voluntary Disclosure Programme, which runs until Dec 31, 2027, allows taxpayers to voluntarily update, review or correct their submissions without incurring penalties.
Nevertheless, Amir Hamzah said the government was mindful of the challenges faced by micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly amid the current global economic environment.
As such, he added that the government has approved an accelerated capital allowance incentive, allowing businesses to claim full capital allowances within one year for qualifying expenditure related to e-Invois implementation.
“These measures will help ease compliance costs and administrative burdens while encouraging greater tax compliance,” he said.
Separately, Amir Hamzah said Malaysia must continue modernising its tax policy and administration as the economy becomes increasingly digital, interconnected and complex.
He noted that Malaysia has responded proactively to evolving developments, particularly those involving new business models, cross-border transactions and international taxation.
“Through continuous reforms and digitalisation initiatives, we are strengthening the transparency, efficiency and integrity of our tax ecosystem to ensure Malaysia remains competitive and attractive as an investment destination,” he said.
Amir Hamzah said a strong fiscal position depends on an efficient, fair and trusted revenue system.
He said taxation is not only a source of government revenue but also an important tool for strengthening confidence in public institutions while supporting economic stability and national development.
He added that Federal Government revenue is projected to reach RM343.1bil this year, which will be channelled towards education, healthcare, infrastructure, security and social protection.
On the economy, Amir Hamzah said Malaysia continued to demonstrate resilience despite global uncertainty.
He said the economy grew 5.4% in the first quarter of 2026, with preliminary estimates pointing to 5.8% growth in the second quarter, supported by domestic demand and expansion in the services, manufacturing, mining and construction sectors.
In the first half of 2026, total trade reached RM1.8 trillion, with exports rising 27.5% year-on-year, contributing to a trade surplus of RM147.1bil.
He said Malaysia had also improved its global competitiveness, climbing to 15th place in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2026 from 23rd last year.
However, Amir Hamzah cautioned that Malaysia must remain vigilant as the global outlook remains uncertain.
“The government will continue to implement policies that strengthen economic resilience, enhance competitiveness and safeguard long-term fiscal sustainability,” he said.
He added that Malaysia is also strengthening its readiness for the implementation of the Global Minimum Tax under the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework and the Crypto-Asset Reporting Frame-work.
Amir Hamzah said maintaining a clear, efficient and trusted tax framework would remain central to Malaysia’s competitiveness.
