TAXATION is a primary source of national revenue, enabling the government to provide public services, infrastructure and support to enhance the quality of life for Malaysians.
As a rapidly developing nation, Malaysia relies heavily on a fair, efficient and responsible tax system.
Therefore, every individual and business that pays taxes not only fulfils a legal obligation but also plays a crucial role in driving the nation's progress.
TAX AS A PILLAR OF THE NATION'S ECONOMY
As a democratic nation, Malaysia requires sufficient funds to support various sectors, including education, healthcare, safety and infrastructure.
Revenue from tax collection is used to fund development projects that benefit the public.
Through taxation, the government can provide public facilities such as roads, hospitals, schools and other essential amenities.
In this context, every contribution by taxpayers is an investment in the nation's future.
In addition, taxes enable the government to implement social programmes to assist the less fortunate, including financial aid and other types of assistance.
All these efforts rely on citizens diligently fulfilling their tax responsibilities.
IMPORTANCE OF TAX COMPLIANCE
Tax compliance is a key foundation for the success of the national taxation system.
As taxpayers, each individual and business has a duty to accurately declare their income and pay the correct amount of tax.
Failure to do so not only leads to legal consequences but also hinders the government from obtaining funding for national development.
However, tax compliance goes beyond merely fulfilling an obligation.
It also encompasses honesty in declaring income and expenses, and avoiding tax evasion or fraud.
Such actions not only breach the law but also undermine the trust that forms the basis of the nation's tax system.
RAISING TAX AWARENESS THROUGH HASiL
The Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (HASiL) plays a vital role in ensuring the proper functioning of the nation's tax system.
As the agency responsible for tax collection, HASiL continually strives to facilitate tax compliance through a variety of initiatives that are friendly to both the public and businesses.
Among these steps are simplifying income declaring and tax payment processes through the e-Services, which is mandatory from Jan 1 , via the MyTax Portal (https://mytax.hasil.gov.my/), and organising tax awareness campaigns to educate the public on the importance of tax in national development.
HASiL remains committed to enhancing voluntary tax compliance through an Awareness, Education and Service (A.E.S.) approach.
Numerous strategies have been devised to reach target groups, including prospective taxpayers, existing taxpayers and those yet to enter the tax network.
Focus is now on the younger generation, which is increasingly active in online businesses and social media.
Through the Corporate Services Department, HASiL runs educational programmes such as HASiL Your Tax Buddy and Program Sahabat HASiL specifically for school and higher education students.
Additionally, HASiL organises seminars and workshops nationwide, collaborating with tax professionals and agencies such as CTIM, EY, Employees Provident Fund, Social Security Organisation and others.
This cooperation ensures the information shared is comprehensive and accurate.
In this digital era, HASiL also actively utilises social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (Twitter) and YouTube to disseminate information interactively and engagingly.
HASiL also responds to numerous public queries through these platforms.
Moreover, HASiL provides an educational platform called EduZone, accessible at www.hasil.gov.my.
Through these efforts, HASiL takes effective steps to promote tax compliance and increase the public's awareness of their responsibilities.
HASiL reminds everyone that each tax payment is a contribution to the nation's future, ultimately benefiting all Malaysians.
e-INVOICING AND TECHNOLOGICAL TRANSFORMATION
In this digital era, HASiL is leading change by integrating technology into the tax system.
One significant initiative is the implementation of e-Invoicing, aimed at enhancing transparency, effectiveness and efficiency in tax collection.
With e-Invoicing, business transactions are digitally recorded, reducing the risk of tax evasion and ensuring accurate tax collection.
Digital transformation also enables the public and businesses to access tax information more easily and manage their tax responsibilities online, making compliance a simpler process.
NATION'S FUTURE AND ROLE OF TAXPAYERS
The future of the nation is dependent on the commitment of all parties to fulfil their tax obligations.
In facing both global and local challenges, Malaysia needs a strong financial foundation to continue growing.
The revenue from tax collection not only funds development projects but also provides better opportunities for future generations.
An efficient and effective tax system also opens doors for Malaysia to attract foreign investment, as investors view the nation as a stable and competitive destination.
Thus, every contribution by taxpayers will have a positive long-term impact on the nation's economy.
YOUR TAX, OUR FUTURE
Tax compliance is not merely a legal responsibility; it is an investment in the nation's future.
Through high tax compliance, Malaysians can collectively build a more advanced, prosperous and peaceful nation. Let us each play our part by paying our taxes on time and with responsibility.
Remember, your tax is our future and with each tax payment, we build a solid foundation for the progress of a more prosperous Malaysia.
As 2024 draws to a close, let's settle outstanding taxes and take advantage of this year's available tax reliefs and rebates to save on next year's taxes.
Fulfil your duty as a taxpayer because Your Tax, Our Future! Visit www.hasil.gov.my for more information.