Tax Resident status

Hi All,

I came to Malaysia on 30thJune 2018 and joined in a company as permanent employee. For the calendar year 2018, number of days stay in Malaysia is 185 days so I am considered as a tax Resident for 2018 and claim the extra tax paid in 2019 IT filing.

However I have below questions, can some please address.

1.My company want me to support from Singapore for 2 to 3 weeks on business visa, so I feel this cannot be considered as a social visit(exceeding 14 days).Am I still considered as tax Resident for 2018 if I'm out of Malaysia on company work ?

2.I have a plan of going my hometown for 4 days(not more than 14 days) in 2018. So will Ibe considered as tax Resident?

Thanks.

1. Business travel does not affect tax residency

2. By taking 4 days leave your qualifying days in Malaysia is extended by 4 days. I don't think you should do it unless you count days 100% Outside Malaysia carefully. 182 + 4 = 186

Advisable to get exit and entry stamps in passport and not use e-gate

Thanks Gravitas for your reply.

One important point is that if travelling on business it is important to return to Malaysia and not tag on a personal trip directly to the business absence as it affects the day count adversely.