Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) to pursue tax evaders regardless of their social status, emphasizing the importance of fairness in tax enforcement. Anwar stressed that everyone, including influential figures like Tans and Tuns, should fulfill their tax obligations.
During an event at the LHDN headquarters, Anwar highlighted the need for stringent tax enforcement to dispel the notion that the wealthy and powerful are exempt from taxation. He recounted his experience as Finance Minister from 1991 to 1998, noting that even then, some prominent companies struggled to meet their tax obligations. Anwar commended the LHDN's past efforts in tackling tax evasion and credited their commitment for the agency's transformation into a government entity.
Anwar pointed out that Malaysia's income tax rate of 11.2% of GDP is among the lowest in the region, comparing favorably to Singapore (12.6%) and Thailand (16.4%). He also lauded the LHDN for achieving a record income tax collection of RM183.34 billion last year, an increase of RM7.8 billion from the previous year. This collection involved 5.7 million individual taxpayers contributing RM40.96 billion and 539,113 companies contributing RM98.77 billion.
Furthermore, Anwar praised the success of the Special Voluntary Disclosure Programme, which garnered 68,806 declarations totaling RM610.62 million in income taxes. He credited these initiatives for boosting national revenue and supporting the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) initiative, which has expanded its aid coverage to over 700,000 recipients.
Anwar encouraged taxpayers to utilize the e-Filing system for submitting their tax returns for the 2023 assessment year. He reminded taxpayers of the vital role played by the LHDN, Customs Department, and other government agencies in supporting the nation's welfare programs.
In conclusion, Anwar's call for equitable tax enforcement reflects the government's commitment to ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their status, contribute their fair share to the nation's development.
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