Payroll in Malaysia refers to the total amount a business pays its employees for their work during a specific time frame. It encompasses salaries, wages, bonuses, allowances, and other forms of compensation. In most companies, payroll is handled by the finance or accounting department, while in smaller businesses, it might be managed by the owner or a trusted team member.
Aside from the monetary aspect, “payroll” also refers to the employee roster and the corresponding payments due to each person. As one of the largest business expenses, payroll costs are generally tax-deductible.
Payroll isn’t static — it can vary with each pay cycle due to factors such as overtime, unpaid leave, commissions, or medical leave. Managing payroll properly is essential not just for smooth operations but also for legal compliance.
Businesses operating in Malaysia must ensure their payroll processes comply with local labor and statutory regulations. Many employers, especially new ones, may not fully understand their legal responsibilities, which can lead to costly mistakes or penalties.
Key acts and regulations that govern payroll in Malaysia include:
Employment Act 1955
Employees Provident Fund (EPF) Act 1991
Employee Social Security Act 1969 (SOCSO)
Employment Insurance System (EIS) Bill 2017
Income Tax (Deduction from Remuneration) Rules 1994
Minimum Wages Order 2016
Minimum Retirement Age Act 2012
Workman’s Compensation Act 1952
Factories and Machinery Act 1967
Children and Young Persons (Employment) Act 1966
Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994
Human Resources Development Act 2001
Employment (Restriction) Act 1968
Each of these laws outlines specific employer obligations, such as minimum wages, statutory deductions (EPF, SOCSO, EIS), tax reporting, working hours, age restrictions, and safety standards.
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In Malaysia, managing payroll is not only about paying employees on time — it’s a critical function that ensures legal compliance, promotes employee trust, and avoids regulatory penalties. Employers must stay informed and up to date with payroll laws to operate smoothly and responsibly.
Malaysia
