SHAH ALAM: The Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) has called for Budget 2027 to focus on easing operational costs, refining tax frameworks, and boosting SME competitiveness amid rising market challenges.
Speaking at ACCCIM’s 80th AGM on Sunday (Aug 9), president Datuk Ng Yih Pyng highlighted that local businesses are grappling with higher employment costs, an expanded Sales and Service Tax (SST), electricity tariff changes, and stiff competition from foreign firms.
"Budget 2027 must be designed to sustain domestic demand, protect the livelihoods of Malaysians, and strengthen household resilience, while maintaining private investment momentum," Ng said.
To support growth, ACCCIM submitted proposals urging the government to relieve tax and cost burdenby raising the preferential corporate tax threshold for SMEs, enhance Reinvestment and Investment Tax Allowances, and streamline tax administration.
It urged the government to update SME and digital support by re-evaluating SME definitions so growing mid-tier firms retain access to incentives, and raise funding ceilings for the Digitalisation Grant.
ACCIM also urged the government to level the playing field by establishing a structured "Buy Made by Malaysia First" framework, reviewing import duty de minimis thresholds, and requiring foreign online sellers generating over RM1 mil annually to set up a local business presence.
It also urged the government to streamline governance, shifting from mere "ease of doing business" to "ease of getting things done" through digital-first public services, faster agency approvals, and regulatory transparency.
At the event, ACCCIM also launched its Trade and Investment Facilitation Centre (TIFC), witnessed by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani. The centre aims to complement ministry efforts by streamlining government liaison services, facilitating business linkages, and supporting local SMEs expanding abroad.
