Kuala lumpur: The government has taken several measures to address the shadow economy as part of its efforts to boost national revenue, including the implementation of the e-invoicing system, which started in 2024. Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying stated that the e-invoicing initiative is designed to promote a more progressive administration and accelerate the digitalisation of the tax system, while also curbing shadow economy activities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lim noted that the government has not been able to fully assess the impact of the e-invoicing system on the shadow economy, as it has not been completely launched. She made this statement during the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Negara, in response to a query from Senator Rita Sarimah Anak Patrick Insol regarding efforts to increase national revenue by addressing the shadow economy.

Lim emphasized that continuous monitoring will be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the initiative in broadening the tax base and enhancing national revenue in the future.

Additionally, in response to a question from Senator Datuk Salehuddin Saidin concerning proposals to address cost of living issues based on locality, Lim explained that the government is focusing on leveraging existing data and improving information-sharing among agencies to enhance the effectiveness of related policies. She mentioned that any improvements to the cost of living assessment framework would be reviewed continuously.

Lim acknowledged the suggestions put forward and reiterated that the current targeted subsidy programmes consider overall income rather than being solely based on locality, ensuring that assistance reaches those most in need.