The Inland Revenue Board (IRB) will continue its compliance efforts through audits and investigations to detect non-compliance among taxpayers in Malaysia.
Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Compliance), Datuk Hisham Rusli, emphasised that all actions undertaken by IRB are in line with the law. “There is no issue of ‘selective prosecution’ in IRB’s actions. What is true is that IRB acts under the authority of the Income Tax Act 1967 and other governing laws,” he stated during an appearance on BERNAMA TV’s Ruang Bicara programme titled Tax Enforcement for the Benefit of All.
Datuk Hisham acknowledged that while tax compliance has improved annually, there are still individuals who evade their responsibilities. “Through audits, IRB can detect non-compliance that may occur, including tax evasion, underreporting of income, or claiming unlawful deductions and exemptions,” he explained.
Following the 2025 Budget presentation by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on 18 October, Datuk Hisham noted that income tax collections administered by IRB account for 41.8% of the national revenue. This underscores IRB’s critical role in sustaining Malaysia’s economic growth and supporting government initiatives.
He also highlighted the organisation’s transformation and innovation efforts, positioning IRB as one of the country’s largest revenue contributors.
Addressing taxpayers directly, Datuk Hisham encouraged them to fulfil their obligations to support Malaysia’s development and prosperity. “The audit action by IRB is not something to be feared. With proper preparation, clear understanding, and a positive attitude, the audit process can be handled calmly and smoothly,” he reassured.
“Treat it as an opportunity to improve financial management and ensure that we are on the right track in complying with the law,” he added.
