Introduction
Malaysia stamp duty rates determine how much tax is payable on property transfers and share transactions. Governed by the Stamp Act 1949, stamp duty applies based on transaction value or market value, whichever is higher.
Stamp Duty Rates on Real Property
The stamp duty for transfer of real property is progressive:
| Transaction Value | Stamp Duty Rate |
| First RM100,000 | 1% |
| RM100,001 – RM500,000 | 2% |
| RM500,001 – RM1,000,000 | 3% |
| Above RM1,000,000 | 4% |
Transaction Value Definition
The taxable value is the higher of:
- Value of consideration (price paid), or
- Market value of the property at the transfer date.
Stamp Duty Rates on Shares Transfer
| Type of Shares | Rate | Basis of Calculation |
|---|---|---|
| Listed Shares | RM 1.50 for every RM 1,000 or fraction thereof | Applies to contract notes relating to the sale of listed shares in Malaysian or foreign companies |
| Non-Listed Shares | RM 3 for every RM 1,000 or fraction thereof | Based on the higher of: • Transfer consideration value, or • Net tangible asset value at the date of transfer |
Key Takeaways
- Property transfer duty is progressive (1%–4%).
- Share transfers attract fixed per-RM1,000 rates.
- Value is based on higher of consideration or market value.
FAQ
Q1: How is property stamp duty calculated?
It’s based on progressive rates (1%–4%) on the higher of transaction value or market value.
Q2: Are listed and unlisted shares taxed the same?
No. Listed = RM1.50/1,000; Non-listed = RM3/1,000.
Q3: Who pays stamp duty?
Usually the transferee or buyer, as stated under the Stamp Act 1949.
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