GST complexities in Malaysia: views from tax experts

Nutman, Naailah and Mohd. Isa, Khadijah and Yussof, Salwa Hana (2022) GST complexities in Malaysia: views from tax experts. International Journal of Law and Management, 64 (2). pp. 150-167. ISSN 1754-243X E-ISSN 1754-2448

	PDF - Published Version Restricted to Registered users only Download (173kB) | Request a copy
	PDF (SCOPUS) - Supplemental Material Restricted to Registered users only Download (540kB) | Request a copy

Abstract

Purpose – The Goods and Services Tax (GST) implementation in Malaysia had raised various responses from many parties involved when the new tax was introduced in 2015 until its abolishment in 2018. GST complexity has been stated as part of the reasons for its resistance and abolishment. The purpose of this paper is to identify causes of GST complexities during its implementation in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach – This paper draws on causes of tax complexity fromprevious studies and conducted semi-structured interviews with tax experts. The respondents comprised of subject matter experts in GST and the findings are based on their numerous years of experiences handling clients with diverse backgrounds. Findings – Findings from this study are categorised into legal complexity and declarative complexities. Almost all the causes of complexities from prior studies were encountered by Malaysian businesses. This study concluded that the most likely reasons for the abolishment of GST in Malaysia are: numerous rules and exception to the rules (e.g. 35 tax codes, gifts rules, 21-day rules), frequent changes of GST rulings and guidelines, GST computations that were too difficult for mixed supply and process of GST refund that were onerous and lengthy. Research limitations/implications – Limitations of this paper include reliance on the respondents’ ability to accurately and honestly recall details of their experiences, circumstances, thoughts or behaviours that are being asked. Practical implications – Despite the abolishment of the GST in Malaysia, it is pertinent to identify the causes of GST complexities that can be learnt by the relevant authorities. Measures can be formulated to mitigate the identified GST complexities to ensure high compliance among businesses with other existing taxes or new taxes (if any) to be introduced in the future. This includes addressing the competency of RMCD officers and businesses on the rules and regulations, minimal rules and exception to the rules, a simplified GST computations for mixed supply and a systematic refund process. Originality/value – The research method used is a flexible and powerful tool to capture the voices and the ways respondents make meaning of their experience dealing with the GST matters. The findings reveal a deep understanding of the issues from the views of the experts in the field.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Tax complexities GST complexities, Taxation, Malaysia accounting regulation, Government regulation, Law and regulation, Tax law, Compliance of tax payers, Accounting regulation
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HJ Public Finance > HJ2240 Revenue. Taxation H Social Sciences > HJ Public Finance > HJ6603 Customs administration
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Economics and Management Sciences > Department of Accounting Kulliyyah of Economics and Management Sciences
Depositing User:	Dr Salwa Hana Yussof
Date Deposited:	04 Jan 2023 16:26
Last Modified:	04 Jan 2023 16:26
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/102640

Actions (login required)

View Item