Kota Kinabalu: Warisan Vice President Datuk Junz Wong has called for a RM1 million exemption threshold for Sabah’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) under the Federal Government’s new e-invoicing regime, citing unique regional economic challenges.
The appeal comes as local businesses struggle with inadequate infrastructure and decreased consumer spending power.
Junz, who initially proposed the increased threshold in August 2024, said the current RM150,000 threshold set by Federal authorities fails to address Sabah’s economic realities.
“SMEs across Malaysia and particularly in Sabah are under tremendous stress. The e-invoicing mandate, though well-intentioned for compliance and transparency, is proving to be a burden rather than a benefit.
“Given the current economic strain, a temporary relief with a RM1 million threshold could provide the much-needed breathing room for our businesses,” he said.
He said the combination of low infrastructure investment and inflation has impacted consumer spending in Sabah, increasing operational costs for SMEs and making compliance with Federal mandates particularly challenging.
“We need the Federal Government to show genuine compassion and understanding towards the hardships faced by our local enterprises. An increased threshold is not a permanent solution, but it is a critical measure that can support the survival and growth of Sabah’s SMEs during these trying times,” he said.
He said Warisan will continue to advocate for policies that recognise Sabah’s unique economic circumstances.
“The request for a RM1 million threshold goes beyond financial relief, it is a call for fair treatment and acknowledgment of the unique difficulties Sabah’s business community encounters,” Junz said.
