DEPUTY Minister of Finance Lim Hui Ying undertook an official working visit to Sabah today, during which she assessed the performance of the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDNM) and Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) in the state, alongside a strategic visit to Sepanggar Port.
Received by Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Sabah’s Minister of Industrial Development and Assemblyman for Luyang, the Deputy Minister was joined by Dr Ahmad Taufik bin Sulaiman, Director of Sabah Customs, and Datin Dayang Halimah binti Awang Ahmad, Director of LHDNM Sabah, as well as senior officers from both agencies.
At Sabah’s LHDNM, Lim expressed her appreciation for what she described as a “commendable achievement” by the state tax office, which surpassed its revenue collection target for the year. As of 25 May 2025, LHDNM Sabah had collected RM2.191 billion—exceeding its RM2.099 billion goal, achieving 104.38%.
She also applauded the successful implementation of electronic invoicing (e-Invoicing) via the MyInvois and MyInvois e-POS platforms, noting that it facilitates compliance for taxpayers, particularly small businesses.
"With the support of all stakeholders, e-Invoicing will not only enhance tax compliance but also improve the efficiency of national revenue administration," she said.
The Deputy Minister further recognised LHDNM’s vital role in the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme, now expanded to cover 5.4 million recipients with a record allocation of RM13 billion—Malaysia’s largest cash assistance initiative to date.
During her stop at JKDM Sabah headquarters, Lim underlined the strategic role of Customs in securing national revenue and combating illicit trade. She acknowledged the enforcement challenges faced on the ground and reaffirmed the Ministry’s support for enhanced operational capabilities.
Referring to the expansion of the Sales and Service Tax (SST) announced in Budget 2025 and due for gazettement next week, she affirmed the readiness of JKDM Sabah to implement the new measures.
"Every ringgit collected contributes to development projects and the betterment of the rakyat’s wellbeing. Thus, every sen counts," she remarked.
At Sepanggar Port—the main maritime trade hub for Sabah—YB Lim evaluated the effectiveness of high-technology scanning systems and gate control operations. She stressed the importance of these systems in expediting trade flow while preventing smuggling.
"Logistics efficiency hinges on enforcement infrastructure. The scanning systems and digital controls at the port are our first line of defence in economic security," she said.
Throughout her engagements, the Deputy Minister consistently emphasised the centrality of integrity and professionalism within government institutions.
"Without integrity, our taxation and enforcement systems would erode. Let us practise the highest ethical standards and reject all forms of corruption," she stated.
The visit underscored the Ministry of Finance’s commitment to understanding regional realities and strengthening federal-state collaboration. YB Lim praised the dedication of JKDM and LHDNM Sabah officers, expressing confidence in their ongoing contribution to national development.
"I am confident that with team spirit and agency efficiency, we can continue to fortify the country’s economic foundation for the benefit of all Malaysians," she added. - June 5, 2025
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