Traditionally, lawyers handled property S&P agreements and the related stamp duty. Tax agents? We focused on income tax and corporate tax.

But with the new self-assessment system for stamp duty kicking off soon…
Everything is about to change.

Starting 2025, stamp duty in Malaysia enters a new era of self-assessment.

For the first time, taxpayers will be responsible for calculating, declaring, and defending their own stamp duty — just like income tax.

Let’s break it down for you:
✅ 1. Self-Assessment Starts
No more waiting for IRB’s calculation.
You do it. You submit it. You own it.

Rollout:
2026 – Rentals, leases, general stamping, securities
2027 – Property transfers
2028 – All other instruments

✅ 2. All Documents Must Be Stamped
Even if duty is low or nil — unless exempted.
This includes intercompany agreements, service contracts, financing documents, etc.

✅ 3. IRB Audit Powers Expanded
IRB can now audit up to 5 years after stamping.
If there’s fraud or negligence — audit period has no limit.
Desk review or on-site audit? Both are possible.

✅ 4. Bigger Penalties
Within 3 months: RM50 or 10%
After 3 months: RM100 or 20%
Court fines: RM1,000 to RM10,000, plus underpaid duty penalty
Minimum duty: RM10 per instrument

✅ 5. Changes in Duty Rates & Exemptions
Rental: No more RM2,400 exemption. Now: 4-tier duty (RM1–RM7 per RM250 rent)
Power of Attorney: New tiered rates
Property Exchanges/Partitions: Now taxed like sales (except for family/government)

✅ 6. Full Digitalization
Electronic stamping. Filing. Online payments.
Guides and support will be provided by IRB.

Stamp duty is no longer just a legal formality — it’s becoming a compliance risk.