The Malaysian government announced today (August 2) that all travelers flying out of Malaysia would need to pay a departure tax from September 1.
The levy will cost between RM8 (S$2.65) and RM150 (S$50), depending on the destination and the class of airline flights.
Those traveling to ASEAN countries and flying economy class will be imposed a levy fee of RM8.
This includes countries like Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Brunei.
However, if they fly on all other airline classes to the region, they will have to pay RM50.
Meanwhile, those traveling out of Malaysia to non-ASEAN countries on economy flights will have to pay a levy fee of RM20.
Lastly, those traveling on non-economy flights to non-ASEAN countries will have to pay RM150.
Exemptions from this levy fee apply to cabin crew, infants and toddlers aged below 24 months old, as well as airline passengers transiting via Malaysia and those leaving within 12 hours.
The departure tax was set out by Malaysia’s Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng, which was gazetted by the government on July 31.
The Departure Levy Bill 2019 was passed by Malaysia’s parliament on April 10, and is aimed at encouraging the development of domestic tourism.
It was supposed to be implemented on June 1, but has been deferred to September 1.
What Are The Consequences If You Don’t Pay?
Those who avoid paying the levy will face harsh punishments.
Anyone who has the intention to evade, or assist another to avoid, paying the fee will be liable to a fine not exceeding RM1 million, a five-year jail sentence or both.
In addition, any person who assaults, obstructs or threatens a customs officer in the discharge of his function, or fails to give reasonable assistance to any customs officer will be liable to a maximum three-year jail term, a fine not exceeding RM500,000, or both, if found guilty.
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