EIS Amendments 2026 Malaysia: Higher Benefits and New Employer Reporting Requirements

EIS Amendments 2026 Malaysia: Higher Benefits and New Employer Reporting Requirements

Effective 1 October 2026, Malaysia’s Employment Insurance System (EIS), administered by PERKESO (SOCSO), introduces several enhancements to employee benefits and new compliance requirements for employers. The amendments aim to provide stronger financial support to employees who lose their jobs, improve access to training and encourage re-employment opportunities. Employers and HR professionals should familiarise themselves with these changes, particularly the new […]

Malaysia Minimum Wage 2027: From RM1,700 Increase to RM2,000

Malaysia Minimum Wage 2027: From RM1,700 Increase to RM2,000

The Malaysian Government has announced an increase in the national minimum wage from RM1,700 to RM2,000 per month, effective June 2027, under Budget 2027. The new minimum wage represents an increase of RM300, or approximately 17.65%, and is expected to benefit more than four million workers nationwide. However, not all employers will be required to implement the new rate immediately. […]

In-House vs Outsourced Payroll in Malaysia: Real Cost Comparison for SMEs

In-House vs Outsourced Payroll in Malaysia: Real Cost Comparison for SMEs

Most Malaysian SMEs assume in-house payroll is the cheaper option simply because there’s no monthly invoice from a provider. Once salaries, statutory contributions, software, and compliance risk are added up, that assumption often doesn’t hold. Payroll Outsourcing Malaysia has moved from a large-company convenience to a mainstream SME decision, largely because the real cost of running payroll internally is higher […]

1:3 Internship Policy Malaysia (2026) – Is It Mandatory for Employers Hiring Expatriates?

1:3 Internship Policy Malaysia (2026) – Is It Mandatory for Employers Hiring Expatriates?

Malaysia’s 1:3 Internship Policy, officially known as the Progressive Policy on Expatriate Contribution to Local Talent Development, has moved into full implementation from 1 June 2026. The policy links the hiring of expatriates under an Employment Pass (EP) with the development of local talent. Companies receiving new or renewed Employment Pass endorsements may be required to provide internship or work-based […]

Public Holidays in Malaysia for 2027

Public Holidays in Malaysia for 2027

Below is the national calendar of all public holidays in Malaysia for 2027. 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, 2027FridayNational except Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis & TerengganuIsrak and MikrajJanuary 6, 2027WednesdayKedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis & TerengganuYDPB Negeri Sembilan’s BirthdayJanuary 14, 2027Thursday […]

HASiL Clarifies Stamp Duty on Employment Contracts: RM3,000 Salary Threshold and Supplementary Documents

HASiL Clarifies Stamp Duty on Employment Contracts: RM3,000 Salary Threshold and Supplementary Documents

Updated: 7 August 2026 The Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (HASiL) has issued an important clarification on the stamp duty treatment of employment-related instruments. The latest announcement provides greater clarity for employers, particularly on employment contracts for employees earning RM3,000 or below per month and the treatment of supplementary employment documents. What Employers Need to Know The key points from […]

PERKESO LINDUNG 24 Jam 2026: Complete Employer Payroll and Opt-Out Guide

PERKESO LINDUNG 24 Jam 2026: Complete Employer Payroll and Opt-Out Guide

Malaysia’s new PERKESO LINDUNG 24 Jam scheme has created an unusual payroll challenge for employers. The scheme took effect on 1 June 2026 as compulsory protection for eligible employees. Following a Cabinet decision in July 2026, participation became voluntary for Malaysian employees but remained compulsory for foreign employees. However, voluntary participation does not mean that employers should immediately stop deductions […]

Expatriate Employment Pass Rejected in Malaysia? Common Reasons and How to Appeal

Expatriate Employment Pass Rejected in Malaysia? Common Reasons and How to Appeal

A rejected Expatriate Employment Pass application can derail a hiring plan overnight, especially when the role was meant to start within weeks. Malaysia’s Expatriate Services Division (ESD) rejects a meaningful share of applications every year, often for reasons employers don’t fully understand until after the decision lands. Since May 2026, the window to challenge a rejection has also shrunk dramatically, […]

Employment Pass Renewal in Malaysia: Timeline, Documents & What Happens If It Expires

Employment Pass Renewal in Malaysia: Timeline, Documents & What Happens If It Expires

Renewing an Employment Pass in Malaysia looks straightforward on paper, until a missing payslip or an outdated organisational chart pushes the timeline past the expiry date. Every year, companies sponsoring expatriates under Employment Pass Malaysia rules discover too late that renewal isn’t something to start a few weeks out. This guide covers exactly when to begin the renewal process, which […]

Can Startups Apply for Employment Pass in Malaysia? Requirements & Common Challenges

Can Startups Apply for Employment Pass in Malaysia? Requirements & Common Challenges

For many early-stage companies, hiring foreign talent is essential to scale quickly. But a common question among founders is: can startups apply for employment pass Malaysia? The short answer is yes, but with strict conditions. Unlike established companies, startups face additional scrutiny when applying for Employment Passes (EP), particularly around financial strength, business credibility, and regulatory compliance. This guide breaks […]

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