Tax Incentives for Small and Medium Companies

Small and Medium Enterprises(SMEs)

Effective from the Year Assessment 2009, for the purpose of imposition of income tax and tax incentives, the definition of SMEs is reviewed as a company resident in Malaysia with a paid up capital of ordinary shares of RM2.5 million or less at the beginning of the basis period of a year of assessment whereby such company cannot be controlled by another company with a paid up capital exceeding RM2.5 million.

SMEs are eligible for a reduced corporate tax of 20% on chargeable incomes of up to RM500,000. The tax rate on the remaining chargeable income is maintained at 25%.

Small Scale Manufacturing Companies

Small scale manufacturing companies incorporated in Malaysia with shareholders' funds not exceeding RM500,000 and having at least 60% Malaysian equity are eligible for the following incentives:

i. Pioneer Status with income tax exemption of 100% of the statutory income for a period of five years. Unabsorbed capital allowances as well as accumulated losses incurred during the pioneer period can be carried forward and deducted from the post pioneer income of the company; or

ii. Investment Tax Allowance of 60% on the qualifying capital expenditure incurred within five years. This allowance can be offset against 100% of the statutory income for each year of assessment. Any unutilised allowances can be carried forward to subsequent years until fully utilised.

A sole proprietorship or partnership is eligible to apply for this incentive provided a new private limited/limited company is formed to take over the existing production/activities.

To qualify for the incentive, effective 2 March 2012, a small-scale company has to comply with the following criteria:

i. The value-added must be at least 25%; and

ii. The managerial, technical and supervisory (MTS) ratio must be at least 20%

The company shall carry out the manufacture of products or participate in activities listed as promoted products and activities for small-scale or in the General List.

Applications should be submitted to MIDA.