Articles

Learn how to start and properly operate a business in Malaysia. These articles are also useful for new business owners.

Information
No More Confusion: Payment to Deceased Agent is No Longer Subject to 2% Withholding Tax
Posted at: 25-08-2025
When an agent, distributor, or dealer passes away, businesses often wonder: Do we still need to withhold tax on payments made to them? The good news is things have become much simpler now. What Changed? Starting from 1 August 2025, under Section 107D of the Income Tax Act, payments made to a deceased individual (EPP… Continue reading No More Confusion: Payment to Deceased Agent is No Longer Subject to 2% Withholding Tax
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Starting October: Foreign Employees Must Contribute to EPF
Posted at: 25-08-2025
The Malaysian government has announced a major change: starting from October 2025, all foreign employees with valid work permits (except domestic helpers) are required to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF). Here’s quick breakdown of what you need to know. Who Does This Apply To? Contribution Rate Registration Process When Can Employers Stop Contributing?… Continue reading Starting October: Foreign Employees Must Contribute to EPF
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MSIC Code in Malaysia: How to Check Yours Easily
Posted at: 19-08-2025
MSIC stands for Malaysia Standard Industrial Classification. It’s a 5-digit code used to classify different types of businesses in Malaysia. The code is issued by the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM). Think of it as your business’s official “category tag”—— it tells the government and relevant authorities what kind of activities your company is involved… Continue reading MSIC Code in Malaysia: How to Check Yours Easily
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Information
What Is Withholding Tax in Malaysia?
Posted at: 07-08-2025
Withholding Tax (WHT) is a key part of Malaysia’s tax system, requiring businesses to deduct tax at the source when making certain payments. Understanding your WHT obligations is essential to avoid penalties, protect cash flow, and stay compliant with the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM). This article breaks down why WHT matters and the risks of non-compliance.
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Information
📢 [UPDATE] 15 September 2025 Declared Additional Public Holiday — Is It Compulsory & How to Pay Your Staff?
Posted at: 25-07-2025
Malaysian government has officially declared Monday, 15 September 2025 as an additional public holiday in conjunction with Malaysia Day, which falls on Tuesday, 16 September 2025. This means Malaysians can enjoy a 4-day long weekend from Saturday (13 Sept) to Tuesday (16 Sept). But as an employer, you might be wondering — is this new… Continue reading 📢 [UPDATE] 15 September 2025 Declared Additional Public Holiday — Is It Compulsory & How to Pay Your Staff?
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Boss forgot to affix stamp duty and don’t want a penalty? Here’s a 5-minute “appeal letter” to get 100% waiver!
Posted at: 24-07-2025
Under the Stamp Duty Act 1949, an employment contract must be stamped within 30 days of signing. Otherwise, the business may be fined RM 50 – 100 or 10 – 20% of the unpaid duty——whichever is higher. Good news: It’s not mandatory to pay the penalty! If you have a reasonable explanation, you can write… Continue reading Boss forgot to affix stamp duty and don’t want a penalty? Here’s a 5-minute “appeal letter” to get 100% waiver!
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Director
📃Can I Remove a Director from My Sdn Bhd? A Shareholder’s Guide (Malaysia 2025)
Posted at: 11-06-2025
Are you a shareholder of a Malaysian Sdn Bhd and wondering if you can legally remove a director? Maybe you’re facing internal disputes, inactive directors, or want to restructure the company board. This guide from Boss Boleh explains when and how a director can be removed——including what happens if you own 51% of the shares,… Continue reading 📃Can I Remove a Director from My Sdn Bhd? A Shareholder’s Guide (Malaysia 2025)
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Grant
MSME Digital Matching Grant MADANI – Claim Up to RM5,000!
Posted at: 09-06-2025
Evolve your business to the digital forefront with the MSME Digital Matching Grant MADANI. Eligible businesses can claim up to 50% or a maximum of RM5,000 in grant value from their total invoice when subscribing to digital services. ✅ Designed to support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Cooperatives✅ Government-backed initiative under the Madani… Continue reading MSME Digital Matching Grant MADANI – Claim Up to RM5,000!
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Information
📃 Should I Hold 51% or 75% Shares in My Company?
Posted at: 09-06-2025
(Malaysia Sdn Bhd Guide for New Business Owners) Starting or restructuring your Sdn Bhd in Malaysia? You’ve probably asked: Is 51% shareholding enough to control the company —— or do I need 75%? The answer depends on what kind of decisions you want to make in the company. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you… Continue reading 📃 Should I Hold 51% or 75% Shares in My Company?
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Closing Down
🧾Company Closure in Malaysia: Strike-Off vs Voluntary Winding-Up — What’s the Difference?
Posted at: 04-06-2025
If you’re considering closing your Sdn. Bhd., it’s important to understand the two legal exit options under the Companies Act 2016 — Strike-Off and Voluntary Winding-Up. Here’s a quick comparison table to help you decide: ✅ Quick Comparison Table Item STRIKE-OFF VOLUNTARY WINDING UP Legal Provision s.550 CA 2016 s.439(1)(b) CA 2016 Resolution Needed ✅… Continue reading 🧾Company Closure in Malaysia: Strike-Off vs Voluntary Winding-Up — What’s the Difference?
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When to Claim Tax Agent & Statutory Filing Fees: Avoid Common Mistakes in YA 2024
Posted at: 03-06-2025
As we approach tax season, many business owners and finance teams ask: “Can we deduct tax agent and statutory filing fees in the current year of assessment?” Let’s clear up the confusion. Tax Deduction Rule: “Incurred Basis” Applies Under Malaysian tax law, expenses are only deductible when they are incurred — not when they relate… Continue reading When to Claim Tax Agent & Statutory Filing Fees: Avoid Common Mistakes in YA 2024
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Information
Understanding Tax Treatment for Specialist Doctors in Private Hospitals-IRBM Guidelines
Posted at: 29-05-2025
The Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM) has issued specific guidance on how income earned by Specialist Doctors in private hospitals should be taxed. According to the IRBM Guidelines dated 16 March 2022, titled “Garis Panduan Layanan Cukai Ke Atas Pendapatan Pengamal Perubatan (Doktor Pakar) Di Hospital Swasta Sama Ada Ditaksir Di Bawah Individu Atau… Continue reading Understanding Tax Treatment for Specialist Doctors in Private Hospitals-IRBM Guidelines
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Information
Understanding Tax Penalties in Malaysia: A Comprehensive Guide
Posted at: 19-05-2025
In Malaysia, the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) enforces strict tax compliance to ensure the integrity of the national tax system. Non-compliance with tax obligations can lead to significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment, or both. This guide outlines the various tax offences and corresponding penalties to help taxpayers stay informed and compliant. 1. Failure to Furnish… Continue reading Understanding Tax Penalties in Malaysia: A Comprehensive Guide
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Company Secretary
SSM’s Extension of Time (EOT)
Posted at: 05-05-2025
As a business owner in Malaysia, it’s crucial to be aware of the compliance requirements set by the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). One such requirement involves the timely circulation and lodgement of your company’s financial statements. However, unforeseen circumstances might necessitate additional time. In such cases, SSM provides an avenue known as the Extension… Continue reading SSM’s Extension of Time (EOT)
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Audit
🛡️New Policy on Releasing Statutory Documents to Auditors
Posted at: 04-04-2025
Protecting Your Company’s Confidential Data At Boss Boleh, we are committed to protecting our clients’ information while supporting their compliance needs. In light of recent fraud attempts involving individuals impersonating auditors to obtain sensitive documents, we have introduced a new policy to strengthen the way we release statutory documents to auditors. 🔐  What’s New? Effective… Continue reading 🛡️New Policy on Releasing Statutory Documents to Auditors
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Director
Do you still need a Constitution if you have a Shareholders ‘Agreement?
Posted at: 02-04-2025
Key Differences & Why You Might Still Need a Constitution Aspect Shareholders’ Agreement Constitution Legal Binding Only between shareholders who signed Legally binds company, directors, and all shareholders Public vs. Private Private, not required to be lodged with SSM Public, accessible under SSM Flexibility Can be changed by agreement of signing parties Requires special resolution… Continue reading Do you still need a Constitution if you have a Shareholders ‘Agreement?
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Information
Malaysia Sick & Medical Leave
Posted at: 28-03-2025
Medical Leave vs Sick Leave: What’s the Difference? While often used interchangeably, sick leave typically refers to time off due to minor illnesses, while medical leave can include more serious health issues requiring extended recovery or hospitalisation. In Malaysia, the Employment Act combines both under paid sick leave provisions, with additional entitlement for hospitalisation leave up to 60 days a year, including the ordinary sick leave allocation. A valid medical certificate is required for both.
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Industry Guide
Annual Leave in Malaysia: 8 Days or 14 Days? Know Your Rights
Posted at: 28-03-2025
Confused about how many days of annual leave you’re entitled to in Malaysia? Whether you’re a new hire or a seasoned employee, this guide breaks down the legal minimum, how leave is calculated, and what many companies are actually offering today (hint: it’s more than 8 days 👀). We also cover prorated leave, carry-forward rules, and what’s changed under the latest amendments to the Employment Act. Ready to find out where you stand? Read the full article and make sure you’re getting what you deserve.
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Industry Guide
How to Set Up Logistics Company in Malaysia
Posted at: 05-03-2025
Malaysia is a prime logistics hub in Southeast Asia, offering excellent infrastructure and strategic advantages for entrepreneurs. If you’re looking to start a logistics company in Malaysia, this guide covers the essential steps and key industry insights to help you get started
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Information
Angie Ng Pey Hiong, Founder of Boss Boleh Sdn Bhd, Malaysia, was honored with the “Founder of the Year Award” at the ASEAN Startup Awards!
Posted at: 20-01-2025
Ng Pey Hiong, Founder of Boss Boleh Sdn Bhd, Malaysia, was honored with the “Founder of the Year Award” at the ASEAN Startup Awards! The recently announced ASEAN Startup Awards recognizes the most impactful and innovative businesses in the 10 ASEAN countries. Boss Boleh Founder Honored with “Founder of the Year” Award A number of… Continue reading Angie Ng Pey Hiong, Founder of Boss Boleh Sdn Bhd, Malaysia, was honored with the “Founder of the Year Award” at the ASEAN Startup Awards!
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