Attention Malaysian entrepreneurs! The recent announcement of Budget 2024 brings a suite of initiatives aimed at bolstering SMEs and MSMEs. Here’s a streamlined summary of the key points you need to know, from tax adjustments to funding opportunities designed to empower your business in the digital age.
Tax Updates for a Digital Future:
- E-Invoicing Mandate: Aligning with digitalization trends, businesses generating over RM100 million annually are now required to adopt e-invoicing.
- Sales and Services Tax Increase: Prepare for an SST hike to 8% in 2024, excluding essential services like F&B and telecommunications, up from the current 6%.
- Extended Tax Exemptions for Social Enterprises: The tax exemption period for social enterprises is extended until 2025, encouraging applications until the end of 2023.
Financial Boosts for SMEs and MSMEs:
- Robust Financing: A whopping RM44 billion is allocated for MSME loans and financing guarantees, with RM2.4 billion earmarked for micro-entrepreneurs and small traders through entities like BSN, TEKUN, and BNM.
- BNM’s Dedicated SME Loans: An additional RM8 billion in loan funds is set aside by Bank Negara Malaysia for SME growth.
- Targeted Initiatives:
- RM100 million for Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) microcredit.
- RM1.6 billion in loans and guarantees for Bumiputera MSME entrepreneurs.
- Special programs by 9 financial institutions for halal SMEs.
- RM50 million for disabled microentrepreneurs’ financing facility.
- iTEKAD social finance and matching grants programs to support broader entrepreneurship.
Embracing Automation and Digitalization:
- Digitalization Grants: RM100 million proposed for grants (up to RM5,000 per entrepreneur) to assist over 20,000 MSMEs in upgrading digital capabilities.
- Automation and Digitization Loans: BNM offers RM900 million in loans for SMEs to boost productivity through technological advancements.
- E-commerce Incentives: The Shop Malaysia Online program receives RM40 million to support small traders transitioning to digital platforms, alongside RM25 million for Digital Economy Centres (PEDi) improvements, focusing on online sales support for rural entrepreneurs.
- ICT Equipment and Software Allowance: The capital allowance for ICT investments jumps to 40%, with a reduced claim period from four to three years.
Enhancing Entrepreneurial Guarantees and Talent Development:
- SJPP Loan Guarantees: A RM20 billion fund to provide up to 80% loan guarantees by SJPP, focusing on the green economy, technology, and halal sectors.
- HRD Corp Training Initiatives: RM1.6 billion to train 1.7 million workers, including a MADANI Training Programme for diverse groups and RM20 million for the TUBE program to foster youth Bumiputera entrepreneurship.
Budget 2024 is a testament to Malaysia’s commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem for SMEs and MSMEs, addressing the vital areas of digital transformation, financial support, and skill development. Elliot & Co is not just an observer; as an enterprise deeply invested in these developments, we’re here to help businesses navigate through this sea of opportunities. Share your thoughts and plans on leveraging Budget 2024 for your venture.