The Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) has announced a new expatriate employment policy aimed at strengthening local talent development while maintaining Malaysia’s competitiveness as an investment destination. Under this new policy, the minimum salary requirements and employment duration for Employment Pass (EP) Categories I, II, and III have been revised. These changes will take effect on 1 June 2026, allowing […]
Below is the national calendar of all public holidays in Malaysia for 2026. Mark these dates on your calendar to plan ahead, effectively manage your work schedule, and enjoy a well-deserved break. Public HolidayDateDayAffected StatesNew Year’s DayJanuary 01, 2026ThursdayNational except Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis & TerengganuYDPB Negeri Sembilan’s BirthdayJanuary 14, 2026WednesdayNegeri SembilanIsrak and MikrajJanuary 17, 2026SaturdayKedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis & TerengganuIsrak […]
Employers in Malaysia are required by law to notify the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN) of certain employee-related changes, including new hires, cessation of employment, and employees leaving Malaysia. These notifications are made using Form CP22, CP22A, and CP21. Each form serves a specific purpose, and all come with strict submission deadlines. Failure to comply may result in a […]
Beginning October 2025, the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) will implement a new policy requiring mandatory EPF contributions for non-Malaysian employees working in Malaysia. This marks a significant shift from the previous voluntary contribution model and aims to strengthen social protection coverage for all workers under the Malaysia MADANI agenda. This article outlines what employers need to know and do to […]
KUALA LUMPUR, 6 June 2025 – The Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) has issued an important update concerning stamp duty requirements for employment contracts, providing much-needed clarity for employers nationwide. Summary of Stamp Duty Requirements for Employment Contracts To ease compliance and reduce the burden on employers, LHDN has introduced a phased approach for enforcing stamp duty on employment contracts: Contract […]
Based on: LHDNM’s Requirements on Stamping of Employment Contracts, presented by MEF Adviser Datuk Hj Shamsuddin Bardan Starting January 2025, Malaysia’s Inland Revenue Board (LHDNM) has begun actively enforcing the Stamp Act 1949 in relation to employment contracts. MEF Adviser Datuk Hj Shamsuddin Bardan recently provided an in-depth briefing on this development to over 2,400 HR professionals, clarifying the requirements, […]
Sick leave is an important benefit that allows employees to rest and recover when they are unwell. In Malaysia, sick leave entitlements are protected by law under the Employment Act 1955, and HR practitioners must ensure that these entitlements are given fairly and managed properly. This article explains what HR teams need to know about sick leave entitlement, how to […]
Introduction Employment contracts are a key document that sets out the terms of engagement between employer and employee. While many companies prepare and sign these contracts diligently, one question frequently arises: Do employment contracts need to be stamped in Malaysia? This article provides a practical guide for HR managers and employers on stamping employment contracts, including recent updates from the […]
Securing an Employment Pass (EP) is essential for expatriates seeking employment in Malaysia. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the application process, eligibility criteria, required documentation, processing timelines, and common pitfalls to avoid. What is an Employment Pass? An Employment Pass is a work permit that allows foreign professionals, managers, and executives to legally work and reside in Malaysia. […]
The Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) of Malaysia has introduced a Tax Identification Number (TIN) search service to streamline tax-related activities under the Income Tax Act (ITA). This new feature allows taxpayers to easily find their TIN using the MyTax Portal, enhancing convenience and compliance. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to search for your TIN through MyTax. Why You […]