KUALA LUMPUR (April 20): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Monday announced a delay in implementing e-invoicing by another year among its series of targeted measures to alleviate cost pressures faced by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) affected by the global energy crisis.

The government postponed the implementation of the e-invoicing for 12 months until Dec 31, 2027 for businesses with annual sales between RM1 million and RM5 million. It includes approval for issuance of consolidated e-invoices and no penalties during that period.

Other measures include an allocation of RM5 billion under Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan (SJPP) to provide financial coverage up to 80% and a guarantee period of up to 10 years for affected businesses such as construction, agriculture, agri-food, logistics and transportation and tourism, a statement showed.

In addition, the government would consider import duty and sales tax exemptions until Dec 31 this year for reimported Malaysian goods that are unable to complete the export process due to the disruption caused by the Middle East conflict.

These measures are based on direct input from MSMEs and to ease cost pressures and ensure business continuity, said Anwar.

The announcement follows engagement sessions with SMEs across various communities, reinforcing the Madani government’s commitment to inclusive economic support and ensuring no segment is left behind, he said.

Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said the ongoing conflict in West Asia has led to widespread economic spillovers, including energy supply disruptions, rising logistics and insurance costs, and sustained input price pressures affecting businesses across sectors, traders, manufacturers and farmers.

“In the face of acute global pressures, the Madani government does not delay; instead, every action is undertaken promptly based on feedback from industry players to ensure assistance reaches those in need,” Anwar added.

Anwar also said that the government will remain proactive in strengthening resilience for the business ecosystem and ensuring businesses can adapt to prolonged global uncertainties.

“This is not a temporary challenge. We must be prepared for prolonged and elevated results,” Anwar said.

He added that the government will continue working closely with financial institutions and industry players to safeguard business continuity and protect jobs.