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Investment Holding Company Malaysia: Tax Treatment for Property and Investment Companies

Some business owners use a Sdn. Bhd. to hold property, shares or investments. If the company mainly derives income from investments, it may be treated as an Investment Holding Company.

ImportantLHDN's FAQ explains that an IHC is a company whose main activity is holding investments and at least 80% of gross income is investment income, with different treatment for listed and non-listed IHCs.
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01

What an Investment Holding Company is

An IHC usually earns from holding investments rather than selling products or providing active services. The proportion of gross income derived from investments is a key indicator.

02

Is a property rental company always an IHC?

Not necessarily. If the company merely rents out property and does not actively provide comprehensive maintenance or support services, it may be closer to investment holding. Active management services require a closer review of facts.

03

Listed and non-listed IHC

Listed IHC

Listed investment holding company

Usually treated as a business source with deductions subject to applicable rules.

Non-listed IHC

Non-listed investment holding company

Expense deductions may be restricted and need to be reviewed under IHC rules.

04

Think before forming a holding company

Investment purpose

Property, shares, IP or group assets.

Income source

Rental, dividends, interest, management fee or operating income mix.

Financing

Bank loans, shareholder loans, interest and guarantees.

Exit plan

Asset sale, share transfer, RPGT or CGT impact.

05

Official sources and disclaimer

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