The expanded Sales and Service Tax (SST) framework takes effect in July 2025, introducing sweeping changes to Malaysia’s taxation system. This significant update from the Royal Malaysian Customs Department demands immediate attention from businesses, as it alters the way taxes are applied to services, imported goods, and revenue thresholds.

The SST expansion is set to impact various sectors, especially those previously outside the tax net. Businesses in logistics, warehousing, private healthcare, private education, beauty services, and wellness must now reevaluate their pricing models and tax pass-through strategies.

With a grace period until December 2025, businesses have a crucial window to align their operations with the updated framework and the expanded service tax scope, ensuring compliance and minimising penalties.

This guide outlines all the essential details, from key changes to actionable compliance strategies, so that businesses can confidently adapt to the new regulations.

Major Updates in Malaysia New SST 2025 Framework 

1. Expansion of Service Tax Categories

The 2025 framework significantly broadens the scope of service tax. More industries are now subject to taxation, including digital service providers, professional consultancy services, and gig economy platforms.

Notably, global service providers catering to Malaysian consumers are required to register and comply, signalling the government’s focus on levelling the playing field for international and local operators.

2. Sales Tax on Low-Value Imported Goods

To address the surge of online cross-border shopping, the SST framework has introduced sales tax on imported goods valued at less than RM500. E-commerce platforms and logistics providers must ensure their systems are updated to apply these taxes seamlessly at the point of sale or delivery. This change creates pricing parity between imported and locally sourced products for consumers.

3. Adjusted Registration Thresholds

As of July 1, 2025, Malaysia’s SST registration thresholds have been updated. While most taxable services still require SST registration if annual turnover exceeds RM500,000, Leasing/Rental and Financial Services now have a higher threshold of RM1,000,000.

Additionally, Private Healthcare and Construction Services have a RM1,500,000 threshold, and Private Education has specific conditions (e.g., fees over RM60,000 per student annually) rather than a general turnover limit. Businesses must closely monitor their revenue against these varied, sector-specific thresholds to ensure compliance.

Compliance Requirements and Steps for Businesses

Compliance with the updated SST framework involves multiple steps. Businesses must approach this methodically to avoid unnecessary setbacks. The following should be prioritised:

Step 1: Assess Applicability and Thresholds

Evaluate whether your business activities, services, or products now fall within the expanded tax categories. Determine if your taxable turnover exceeds or approaches the RM500,000 threshold.

Step 2: Register for SST on Time

Eligible businesses need to complete their registration through MySST. The Malaysian Customs Department has simplified registration steps to accommodate the new wave of filers. Early registration ensures the timely issuance of tax invoices and avoids operation disruptions.

Step 3: Implement Accurate Tax Systems

Collaborate with your finance team or tax practitioners to ensure your accounting systems accurately capture and report taxable revenue. The 2025 framework highlights the importance of automated tax compliance solutions, especially for e-commerce and international service providers handling diverse tax obligations.

Step 4: Train Internal Staff

Equip your team with the latest knowledge on SST compliance, ensuring key personnel such as finance managers and operational staff are fully up to date with the revised policies. Workshops or consultation with tax experts can enhance preparedness.

Benefit of the Grace Period Until December 2025

The Malaysian government acknowledges that transitioning to this expanded framework may require time, especially for smaller enterprises and foreign investors entering the local market. A grace period extending to 31 December 2025 has been introduced, providing businesses with a soft landing to adjust operational processes.

Key Advantages of the Grace Period

1. Awareness and Education: Time to educate staff and management on the changes.
2. System Upgrades: Opportunity to implement or improve tax compliance tools.
3. Error Rectification: Businesses can actively identify and correct mistakes in SST filing during this period without incurring penalties.

While this window is beneficial, businesses should act swiftly to ensure readiness well before the deadline. Leaving adjustments to the last moment could lead to operational bottlenecks and missed reporting deadlines.

Risks of Non-Compliance and Penalty Avoidance Strategies

Adherence to tax regulations is non-negotiable. Non-compliance under Malaysia new SST 2025 framework comes with significant risks, including financial penalties, reputational damage, and legal repercussions.

Risk Overview

• Financial Penalties: Businesses that fail to register on time or inaccurately file tax returns will face fines and late fees, which could compound quickly.
• Customs Audits: Increased stringency from regulatory authorities will likely result in in-depth audits for businesses that do not meet compliance standards.
• Reputational Damage: Non-compliance may deter foreign investors or partnerships seeking dependable local collaborators.

Mitigation Strategies

1. Automate Reporting with software that integrates seamlessly into workflows, ensuring real-time compliance with Malaysian pricing and tax laws.
2. Audit-proof Your Records by maintaining clear and organised documentation of all transactions, invoices, and filings. With efficient record-keeping, regulatory audits will be quicker and less disruptive.
3. Engage a Tax Professional to verify complex filings, especially if your organisation operates cross-border or within industries newly included under the SST umbrella.

Setting Up for Success Under the SST 2025 Framework

Navigating Malaysia’s expanded SST framework may seem complex, but aligning early with regulatory requirements ensures your business remains compliant, avoids penalties, and maximises growth potential.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the changes to the framework, especially for service tax and imported goods.
• Actively monitor thresholds and register where applicable before the RM500,000 limit.
• Use the grace period until December 2025 effectively to refine internal systems, ensuring smooth operations.

For professional guidance tailored to your business needs, consult with tax specialists or implement robust tax compliance systems. Starting today guarantees compliance and positions your organisation for seamless, sustainable growth in Malaysia’s evolving business landscape.

Call to Action

Ensure your compliance is seamless and stress-free. Reach out to us today for a personalised consultation or explore our tailored solutions for Malaysia New SST 2025 framework. Let us help you streamline your business and stay ahead with confidence.

By adapting proactively, businesses can mitigate risks while leveraging the opportunities brought by Malaysia’s strengthened taxation infrastructure for 2025. Stay compliant, stay competitive.

About In.Corp Global Malaysia
In.Corp Global Malaysia, an Ascentium Company, is a trusted corporate service provider offering end-to-end business solutions, including company incorporation, compliance, accounting, taxation, and ESG advisory. With deep local expertise and a strong regional network, we help businesses navigate Malaysia’s evolving regulatory landscape. Contact us to learn more.