How to Submit Tourism Tax Malaysia: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking for a comprehensive guide on how to submit tourism tax in Malaysia? SIXT.VN provides you with everything you need to know about Malaysia Tourism Tax (TTx) submission, ensuring a smooth and compliant process. Let’s explore the step-by-step guide to accurately file and pay your tourism tax, boosting your confidence in managing your hotel’s financial responsibilities and understanding hotel tax regulations.

1. What is the Malaysia Tourism Tax and Who Needs to Pay It?

The Malaysia Tourism Tax (TTx) is a tax imposed on foreign tourists staying at accommodations in Malaysia. This tax aims to enhance the tourism industry and improve tourist facilities. The tax is applicable to foreign tourists staying in accommodations like hotels, resorts, and other registered premises.

1.1. Who is Required to Pay the Tourism Tax?

The tourism tax is compulsory for foreign tourists, it is not applicable to:

• Malaysian citizens
• Permanent residents of Malaysia

This exemption ensures that only international visitors contribute to the tourism tax fund.

1.2. How Much is the Tourism Tax?

The current rate for the tourism tax is RM 10 per room per night. This flat rate applies irrespective of the hotel’s star rating or the type of accommodation.

1.3. Why Was the Tourism Tax Introduced?

The Tourism Tax was introduced for several key reasons:

• Boost Tourism Revenue: The tax generates additional revenue for the government, which is then reinvested into the tourism sector.
• Improve Infrastructure: Funds are used to enhance tourist facilities and infrastructure, making Malaysia a more attractive destination.
• Promote Tourism Activities: The revenue supports tourism promotion and development, attracting more visitors to the country.

1.4. Who Benefits from the Tourism Tax?

The tourism tax benefits various stakeholders:

• Government: Receives additional revenue for tourism development.
• Tourism Industry: Benefits from improved infrastructure and promotional activities.
• Tourists: Enjoy better facilities and services during their stay.
• Local Communities: Experience economic growth and job creation due to tourism.

2. How to Register for Tourism Tax in Malaysia

Before you can collect tourism tax, you must register with the Royal Malaysian Customs Department. The registration process is straightforward and can be done online.

2.1. Accessing the MyTTx Portal

The MyTTx system is the official online platform for managing tourism tax in Malaysia.

1. Visit the MyTTx portal: https://myttx.customs.gov.my

This portal is your primary resource for all tourism tax-related activities.

2.2. Creating an Account

To begin the registration process, you need to create an account on the MyTTx portal.

1. Click on the “Sign Up” or “Register” button on the homepage.
2. Fill in the required details, such as your hotel’s name, address, contact information, and business registration number.
3. Create a secure username and password.
4. Submit the registration form.

2.3. Verification and Activation

After submitting your registration, the Royal Malaysian Customs Department will verify your details. This may take a few business days.

1. Check your email for a verification link.
2. Click the link to verify your email address.
3. Once verified, your account will be activated.

2.4. Obtaining Your Tourism Tax Registration Number

Once your account is activated, you will receive a unique Tourism Tax Registration Number. This number is essential for all future filings and payments.

1. Log in to the MyTTx portal with your username and password.
2. Navigate to your account dashboard.
3. Your Tourism Tax Registration Number will be displayed prominently.

2.5. Key Documents Required for Registration

Ensure you have the following documents ready during the registration process:

• Business Registration Certificate: Proof of your hotel’s registration with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM).
• Identification Documents: Copies of the owner’s or authorized representative’s identification card or passport.
• Hotel License: A valid hotel license issued by the local authorities.
• Bank Account Details: Information about your hotel’s bank account for tax payments.

Having these documents prepared in advance will streamline the registration process.

3. How to Collect Tourism Tax from Foreign Guests

Collecting tourism tax is a crucial step in complying with Malaysian regulations. Here’s how to properly collect the tax from your foreign guests.

3.1. Identifying Foreign Guests

The first step is to accurately identify which guests are subject to the tourism tax.

1. Check Nationality: Ask guests to present their passports or identification cards upon check-in.
2. Verify Residency Status: Ensure that guests are not Malaysian citizens or permanent residents.

By accurately identifying foreign guests, you can avoid incorrectly charging the tourism tax to exempt individuals.

3.2. Informing Guests About the Tourism Tax

Transparency is key when it comes to collecting the tourism tax.

1. Inform Guests Upon Booking: Include information about the tourism tax on your website, booking confirmations, and pre-arrival emails.
2. Explain at Check-In: Clearly explain the tourism tax to guests during the check-in process.
3. Provide Written Notice: Display a notice about the tourism tax at the reception desk.

Clear communication helps manage guest expectations and avoids misunderstandings.

3.3. Itemizing Tourism Tax on Invoices

When issuing invoices to guests, the tourism tax must be clearly itemized.

1. Separate Line Item: Include a separate line item on the invoice for the tourism tax.
2. Specify the Amount: Clearly state the amount of tourism tax charged per night and the total amount for the stay.
3. Provide Explanation: Add a brief explanation of the tourism tax.

Here’s an example of how to itemize the tourism tax on an invoice:

3.4. Methods of Collecting Tourism Tax

Tourism tax can be collected through various methods:

• Cash: Accept cash payments at the front desk.
• Credit/Debit Card: Process payments using credit or debit cards.
• Online Payment: Include the tourism tax in online payment options.

Ensure your payment systems are equipped to handle the collection of tourism tax.

4. How to Track and Record Tourism Tax

Accurate tracking and recording of tourism tax are vital for compliance. Implementing a robust system ensures that you can accurately file your returns.

4.1. Manual Tracking Methods

If you prefer manual tracking, here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Create a Spreadsheet: Use a spreadsheet to record the tourism tax collected from each foreign guest.
2. Include Essential Information: Record the guest’s name, nationality, passport number, check-in and check-out dates, number of nights stayed, and the total tourism tax collected.
3. Regular Updates: Update the spreadsheet daily to ensure accuracy.

Here’s an example of a manual tracking log:

4.2. Using Property Management Systems (PMS)

A Property Management System (PMS) can automate the tracking and recording of tourism tax.

1. Select a PMS: Choose a PMS that supports tourism tax calculation and reporting. Popular options include Cloudbeds, and RoomKeyPMS.
2. Configure Tax Settings: Set up the tourism tax rate (RM 10 per night) in the PMS.
3. Automatic Calculation: The PMS will automatically calculate the tourism tax for each foreign guest based on their stay duration.
4. Generate Reports: Use the PMS to generate reports on tourism tax collected within a specific period.

4.3. Key Data to Record

Regardless of the tracking method you choose, ensure you record the following data:

• Guest Name
• Nationality
• Passport Number
• Check-In Date
• Check-Out Date
• Number of Nights Stayed
• Total Tourism Tax Collected

4.4. Best Practices for Accurate Tracking

Follow these best practices to maintain accurate records:

• Train Staff: Ensure your staff is well-trained on how to identify foreign guests and collect tourism tax.
• Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits of your records to identify and correct any discrepancies.
• Backup Your Data: Regularly backup your data to prevent data loss.

Accurate tracking ensures compliance and simplifies the filing process.

5. How to File Tourism Tax in Malaysia

Filing the tourism tax involves submitting a return to the Royal Malaysian Customs Department. This must be done at the end of each month.

5.1. Logging into the MyTTx Portal

1. Visit the MyTTx portal: https://myttx.customs.gov.my
2. Enter your username and password to log in.

5.2. Accessing the Filing Section

Once logged in, navigate to the section for filing tourism tax returns.

1. Click on the “Filing” or “Returns” tab on the dashboard.
2. Select the month for which you are filing the return.

5.3. Entering the Required Information

Fill in the required information accurately.

1. Total Number of Foreign Guests: Enter the total number of foreign guests who stayed at your hotel during the month.
2. Total Number of Room Nights: Enter the total number of room nights occupied by foreign guests.
3. Total Tourism Tax Collected: Enter the total amount of tourism tax collected during the month.

5.4. Uploading Supporting Documents

You may need to upload supporting documents to verify the information provided.

1. Prepare Documents: Prepare documents such as your guest register and tourism tax tracking log.
2. Upload Files: Upload the documents in the required format (e.g., PDF, Excel).

5.5. Reviewing and Submitting the Return

Before submitting, carefully review all the information you have entered.

1. Double-Check: Ensure that all the data is accurate and complete.
2. Submit: Click the “Submit” button to submit your return.

5.6. Confirmation and Acknowledgment

After submitting, you should receive a confirmation and acknowledgment from the MyTTx system.

1. Save Confirmation: Save a copy of the confirmation for your records.
2. Note the Reference Number: Note the reference number for future correspondence.

6. How to Pay Tourism Tax in Malaysia

Paying the tourism tax is the final step in the compliance process. Ensure you pay the correct amount by the due date.

6.1. Payment Methods

The Royal Malaysian Customs Department offers several payment methods:

• Online Banking: Pay through online banking portals.
• Bank Transfer: Transfer funds directly from your hotel’s bank account.
• Credit/Debit Card: Use a credit or debit card to make the payment.

6.2. Online Banking

Paying through online banking is a convenient option.

1. Select Online Banking: Choose the online banking option on the MyTTx portal.
2. Choose Your Bank: Select your bank from the list of supported banks.
3. Log in to Your Bank Account: You will be redirected to your bank’s website to log in.
4. Authorize Payment: Follow the instructions to authorize the payment.
5. Save Receipt: Save a copy of the payment receipt for your records.

6.3. Bank Transfer

You can also pay through a bank transfer.

1. Obtain Bank Details: Obtain the bank account details of the Royal Malaysian Customs Department from the MyTTx portal.
2. Make the Transfer: Transfer the funds from your hotel’s bank account to the designated account.
3. Provide Reference: Include your Tourism Tax Registration Number as a reference in the transfer.
4. Save Proof of Payment: Save a copy of the bank transfer receipt for your records.

6.4. Credit/Debit Card

Paying with a credit or debit card is another straightforward method.

1. Select Credit/Debit Card: Choose the credit/debit card option on the MyTTx portal.
2. Enter Card Details: Enter your card number, expiry date, and CVV code.
3. Authorize Payment: Follow the instructions to authorize the payment.
4. Save Receipt: Save a copy of the payment receipt for your records.

6.5. Payment Due Dates

The payment due date is typically the last day of the month following the month for which you are filing the return.

• Example: For the month of January, the payment is due by the end of February.

6.6. Consequences of Late Payment

Late payment of tourism tax can result in penalties and fines.

• Late Payment Penalties: The Royal Malaysian Customs Department may impose penalties for late payments.
• Interest Charges: Interest may be charged on the outstanding amount.
• Legal Action: In severe cases, legal action may be taken against non-compliant hotels.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting Tourism Tax

To ensure a smooth and compliant process, avoid these common mistakes when submitting tourism tax.

7.1. Incorrectly Identifying Foreign Guests

Mistakenly charging Malaysian citizens or permanent residents can lead to disputes and compliance issues.

• Solution: Always verify the nationality and residency status of guests upon check-in.

7.2. Failing to Itemize Tourism Tax on Invoices

Not clearly itemizing the tourism tax on invoices can create confusion and transparency issues.

• Solution: Always include a separate line item for the tourism tax on invoices.

7.3. Inaccurate Tracking of Tourism Tax

Inaccurate tracking can lead to incorrect filings and payments.

• Solution: Implement a robust tracking system and conduct regular audits.

7.4. Missing Filing Deadlines

Missing filing deadlines can result in penalties and fines.

• Solution: Set reminders for filing deadlines and submit your returns on time.

7.5. Incorrect Payment Amounts

Paying the wrong amount of tourism tax can lead to compliance issues.

• Solution: Double-check your calculations before making the payment.

7.6. Neglecting to Keep Proper Records

Failing to keep proper records can make it difficult to verify your filings and payments.

• Solution: Maintain detailed records of all tourism tax-related activities.

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9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Malaysia Tourism Tax

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Malaysia Tourism Tax to help you better understand the regulations and procedures.

9.1. Who is Exempt from Paying Tourism Tax in Malaysia?

Malaysian citizens and permanent residents are exempt from paying the tourism tax.

9.2. What is the Current Rate of Tourism Tax in Malaysia?

The current rate is RM 10 per room per night for foreign tourists.

9.3. How Do I Register for Tourism Tax in Malaysia?

You can register online via the MyTTx portal: https://myttx.customs.gov.my.

9.4. What Documents Do I Need to Register for Tourism Tax?

You need your business registration certificate, identification documents, hotel license, and bank account details.

9.5. How Often Do I Need to File Tourism Tax Returns?

You must file tourism tax returns at the end of each month.

9.6. What are the Consequences of Late Payment of Tourism Tax?

Late payment can result in penalties, interest charges, and legal action.

9.7. Can I Pay Tourism Tax Online?

Yes, you can pay tourism tax online through online banking, bank transfer, or credit/debit card.

9.8. What Should I Do If I Made a Mistake in My Tourism Tax Filing?

Contact the Royal Malaysian Customs Department immediately to rectify the mistake.

9.9. How Can I Track Tourism Tax Collected from Guests?

You can use manual tracking methods or a Property Management System (PMS) to track tourism tax.

9.10. Where Can I Find More Information About Tourism Tax in Malaysia?

You can find more information on the Royal Malaysian Customs Department website or the MyTTx portal.

10. Resources and References for Malaysia Tourism Tax

To ensure you have access to the most accurate and up-to-date information, here are some useful resources and references for Malaysia Tourism Tax.

10.1. Royal Malaysian Customs Department

The official website of the Royal Malaysian Customs Department provides detailed information about tourism tax regulations, guidelines, and updates.

• Website: https://www.customs.gov.my/

10.2. MyTTx Portal

The MyTTx portal is the official online platform for managing tourism tax in Malaysia.

• Website: https://myttx.customs.gov.my/

10.3. Tourism Malaysia

Tourism Malaysia is the official tourism board of Malaysia. Their website offers valuable insights into the tourism industry and related regulations.

• Website: https://www.tourism.gov.my/

10.4. Hotels and Tourism Associations

Local hotels and tourism associations can provide guidance and support on tourism tax compliance.

• Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH): https://www.hotels.org.my/
• Malaysian Tourism Council (MTC): https://mtc.org.my/

10.5. Legal and Accounting Professionals

Consulting with legal and accounting professionals can help you navigate the complexities of tourism tax regulations and ensure compliance.

By utilizing these resources, you can stay informed and compliant with Malaysia’s tourism tax requirements.

11. Staying Updated on Tourism Tax Regulations

Tourism tax regulations can change over time, so it’s important to stay updated to ensure ongoing compliance.

11.1. Subscribing to Official Newsletters

Subscribe to newsletters from the Royal Malaysian Customs Department and Tourism Malaysia to receive updates on tourism tax regulations.

11.2. Monitoring Official Websites

Regularly check the official websites of the Royal Malaysian Customs Department and Tourism Malaysia for announcements and updates.

11.3. Attending Industry Seminars and Workshops

Attend industry seminars and workshops to learn about the latest developments in tourism tax regulations and best practices.

11.4. Networking with Industry Peers

Network with other hotel operators and industry peers to share information and insights on tourism tax compliance.

11.5. Consulting with Experts

Consult with legal and accounting experts to stay informed about changes in tourism tax regulations and ensure your business remains compliant.

By staying informed and proactive, you can avoid compliance issues and maintain a smooth and efficient tourism tax process.

Filing tourism tax in Malaysia involves several key steps, from registering with the Royal Malaysian Customs Department to accurately tracking and recording the tax, filing monthly returns, and making timely payments. By following this comprehensive guide and avoiding common mistakes, hotels can ensure compliance and contribute to the growth of Malaysia’s tourism industry.

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12. The Future of Tourism Tax in Malaysia

As Malaysia’s tourism sector continues to evolve, so too will the regulations surrounding tourism tax.

12.1. Potential Changes in Tax Rates

The government may adjust the tourism tax rate in response to economic conditions or to align with regional standards.

12.2. Expansion of Taxable Accommodations

The scope of taxable accommodations may expand to include a wider range of properties, such as vacation rentals and homestays.

12.3. Enhanced Enforcement Measures

The Royal Malaysian Customs Department may implement enhanced enforcement measures to improve compliance and deter tax evasion.

12.4. Integration of Technology

Technology may play an increasing role in tourism tax management, with the potential for automated tracking, filing, and payment systems.

12.5. Increased Transparency and Accountability

Efforts to increase transparency and accountability in the use of tourism tax revenue may become more prominent.

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