“This is the first year dividend tax applies,” said accounts and tax expert Datin Christine Koh. Tax reliefs reduce tax payable, not actual spending. “At a 20% tax rate, spending RM1,000 only saves RM200 in tax. Tax expert Datuk Koong Lin Loong said the relief applies to loan agreements signed between Jan 1, 2025 and Dec 31, 2027. “For example, if a loan is signed at the end of 2027, the tax relief can carry on to 2029,” he said.

Source: The Star February 14, 2026 10:21 UTC