PETALING JAYA: Groups have welcomed the Inland Revenue Board’s (LHDN) assurance of leniency towards businesses in cases of non-compliance when e-invoicing is implemented next month.

Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) president Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai described LHDN’s approach as “pragmatic and supportive”.

He said it would help encourage more businesses to transition to e-invoicing without fear of immediate penalties.

“The flexible approach taken by LHDN would also help reduce anxiety about the potential technical and financial challenges to be faced and allow them to focus on finding suitable solutions.

“The transition to e-invoicing can be complex and may require significant changes in business processes and systems.

“By evaluating cases on an individual basis, LHDN can provide more targeted support and guidance to businesses facing unique challenges even after companies go live on Aug 1,” he told The Star.His comments came following LHDN chief executive officer Datuk Dr Abu Tariq Jamaluddin’s assurance, amid concerns over penalties for those failing to comply with e-invoicing requirements.

Soh said the move would also allow companies to report issues and seek help from the authorities, ultimately helping to build trust between them.

“Evaluating non-compliance on a case-by-case basis ensures that businesses with legitimate reasons for delays are treated fairly.

“However, it is also important for businesses to recognise that the leniency by the authorities is temporary and that they should still prioritise e-invoicing implementation efforts to ensure full compliance in the near future,” he said.

Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) treasurer general Datuk Koong Lin Loong said the flexibility would help businesses familiarise themselves with the new system, especially for those just coming on board.

Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KLSICCI) president Nivas Ravagan said LHDN should also increase awareness programmes to promote the adoption of e-invoicing.

“Rather than going for enforcement, LHDN should kickstart with awareness and adoption through consultations nationwide by working closely with business organisations,” he said.

He suggested that the campaigns be implemented for the next year in order to educate business owners on the positive impact of digitalisation.

Nivas said KLSICCI members have been engaging with tax partners through several workshops and consultations to create awareness and adoption of e-invoicing.

“I think we have done well to tackle MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) to be ready for e-invoicing in the next one year. We want our members to be prepared to embrace e-invoicing once it is implemented,” he added.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/17/groups-welcome-offer-of-leniency-for-e-invoicing-hiccups