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SMRITRAM INFOTECH

How Different Industries Benefit from IW’s – Real-World Use Cases

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced digital world, businesses across industries face challenges like manual inefficiencies, compliance hurdles, and scalability limitations. Intelligent Workers (IW’s) provide an innovative solution by automating workflows, improving accuracy, and streamlining operations. Let’s explore how different industries benefit from IW’s and why adopting automation is crucial for future growth.

1. Manufacturing: Streamlining Production & Supply Chain.

 

Challenges:

  • Inefficient inventory management

  • High operational costs due to manual processes

  • Delays in production tracking

How IW’s Help:

✅ Automates production scheduling and inventory tracking
✅ Reduces errors in supply chain management
✅ Enhances real-time monitoring of production processes

💡 Example: A manufacturing company reduced downtime by 30% using automated workflow solutions, leading to higher productivity and cost savings.

2. Retail & E-Commerce: Enhancing Customer Experience

 

Challenges:

  • Difficulty in managing high-volume transactions

  • Lack of real-time stock updates

  • Manual order processing delays

How IW’s Help:

✅ Automates order processing and invoicing
✅ Provides real-time stock updates to avoid overselling
✅ Enhances personalized customer engagement through AI chatbots

💡 Example: An e-commerce store improved order fulfillment speed by 40% after implementing automated invoicing and inventory tracking.

3. Healthcare: Ensuring Accuracy & Compliance.

 

Challenges:

  • Managing patient records securely

  • Compliance with strict healthcare regulations

  • Delayed insurance claim processing

How IW’s Help:

✅ Automates patient data management with secure cloud storage
✅ Ensures compliance with medical data privacy laws
✅ Reduces insurance claim processing time with automated workflows

💡 Example: A hospital reduced administrative workload by 50% after integrating intelligent automation in patient record management.

4. Finance & Accounting: Improving Accuracy & Speed.

 

Challenges:

  • Manual data entry errors leading to compliance risks

  • Time-consuming reconciliation processes

  • Lack of real-time financial insights

How IW’s Help:

✅ Automates invoice processing and financial reporting
✅ Reduces human errors and ensures tax compliance
✅ Provides real-time insights for better decision-making

💡 Example: A financial firm saved 20+ hours per week by automating invoice reconciliation and report generation.

5. Logistics & Supply Chain: Optimizing Operations.

 

Challenges:

  • Delays in shipment tracking and order fulfillment

  • High costs due to inefficient route planning

  • Lack of real-time updates on inventory levels

How IW’s Help:

✅ Automates shipment tracking and logistics planning
✅ Reduces fuel costs with AI-powered route optimization
✅ Provides real-time updates on stock levels and deliveries

💡 Example: A logistics company reduced transportation costs by 25% with intelligent route planning and automated tracking.

Conclusion

No matter the industry, IW’s transform operations by reducing manual effort, enhancing compliance, and improving overall efficiency. Businesses that embrace automation gain a competitive edge and future-proof their operations.

🔍 Is your industry ready to leverage automation? Contact us today to learn more!

 

Revolutionizing Travel and Hospitality with WhatsApp API

Introduction

The travel and hospitality industry thrives on seamless communication and exceptional customer service. In an era where convenience and personalization are key, WhatsApp API has emerged as a game-changer. With over 2 billion users worldwide, WhatsApp provides hotels, travel agencies, and airlines with a powerful platform to connect with their customers like never before. Here’s how it’s transforming the industry.

 

1. Simplifying Booking Processes

Gone are the days of endless email threads or lengthy phone calls to book a room or flight. With WhatsApp API, customers can now:

  • Make Reservations Instantly: Send inquiries and confirm bookings in real-time.

  • Get Real-Time Availability: Access updated details on room availability, flight schedules, or travel packages.
  • Receive Confirmation Details: Automatically get booking details and invoices directly in the chat.

Why It Works: Customers appreciate the convenience of a fast and hassle-free booking experience, leading to increased conversions.

 

2. Personalized Customer Support

In travel, every customer has unique needs. WhatsApp API allows businesses to deliver:

  • Tailored Responses: Answer specific questions about room features, travel itineraries, or flight changes.
  • Language Support: Use multilingual chatbots or human agents to cater to diverse audiences.

Real-Life Example: A traveler can message their hotel to request late check-in or inquire about nearby attractions, receiving quick and helpful responses.


3. Automated Reminders and Updates

Keeping customers informed is critical in the travel and hospitality sector. WhatsApp API makes it easy to send:

  • Flight and Check-In Reminders: Notify passengers about boarding times or hotel check-in details.
  • Itinerary Updates: Share real-time changes to travel plans, such as flight delays or hotel upgrades.
  • Payment Reminders: Prompt guests about pending payments or cancellations.

Impact: These timely updates reduce customer anxiety and improve overall satisfaction.


4. Enhancing Post-Booking Experiences

The customer journey doesn’t end with a booking. WhatsApp API helps businesses build stronger relationships by offering:

  • Welcome Messages: Send warm greetings to guests upon arrival.
  • Upselling Opportunities: Recommend upgrades, spa services, or travel add-ons.
  • Feedback Collection: Request reviews or ratings to improve services.

Why It Matters: Engaging customers even after the booking enhances loyalty and encourages repeat business.


5. Rich Media for Better Engagement

A picture is worth a thousand words, and WhatsApp API allows businesses to share:

  • Hotel and Room Images: Showcase the best features of your property.
  • Travel Guides: Provide maps or brochures to help customers plan their trips.
  • Promotional Videos: Highlight exclusive offers or destination features.

Benefit: Visual content not only informs but also inspires customers to choose your services.


6. Seamless Customer Support During Travel

Travel often comes with unexpected hiccups. With WhatsApp API, businesses can:

  • Resolve Issues Quickly: Assist customers with lost bookings, baggage inquiries, or flight changes.
  • Provide Emergency Support: Be available 24/7 for urgent concerns.

Example: A traveler can message an airline to reschedule a flight due to unforeseen circumstances and receive immediate assistance.


7. Building Trust with Verified Business Accounts

A verified WhatsApp business profile reassures customers of your authenticity and professionalism. This builds confidence, especially for first-time travelers or guests unfamiliar with your brand.

Outcome: Increased trust leads to higher engagement and more bookings.


Conclusion: Transforming Travel One Message at a Time
 

WhatsApp API is revolutionizing the travel and hospitality industry by making communication seamless, personal, and efficient. From simplifying bookings to offering real-time support and updates, it empowers businesses to deliver unforgettable customer experiences.

Whether you’re a hotel, travel agency, or airline, it’s time to embrace the future of customer engagement. Let Smritram Infotech help you integrate WhatsApp API and take your travel business to new heights. Ready to get started? Contact Smritram Infotech today and let’s make travel better together!

Boosting Conversions with Landing Page Optimization

Introduction

 
Your landing page is like the front door of your online business — it’s where visitors decide whether to step in or leave. That’s why optimizing it is so important. A well-designed landing page can help turn curious visitors into loyal customers. 

Here’s how you can make it happen:

1. Know Your Audience

Take the time to understand who’s visiting your page. What are their needs? What problems are they trying to solve? Tailor your message and design to speak directly to them. The more relatable your page feels, the more likely they are to stick around.

 

2. Catchy Headlines That Work

Your headline is your first impression, so make it count. Keep it short, clear, and engaging. Think of it as the hook that reels visitors in. Use language that excites and immediately tells them what’s in it for them.


3. Eye-Catching Design

Nobody likes a cluttered page. Use clean layouts, high-quality visuals, and colors that reflect your brand. Keep it simple and guide visitors’ eyes toward the most important part — your call-to-action (CTA).


4. Your Call-to-Action Matters

Your CTA is the heart of your landing page. Use strong, action-packed words like “Join Now,” “Start Your Free Trial,” or “Get Started Today.” Make the button easy to spot and hard to resist.


5. Fast and Mobile-Friendly

No one has the patience for a slow-loading page. Make sure your landing page loads quickly and looks great on mobile devices. Compress images and clean up unnecessary elements to keep it running smoothly.


6. Show You Can Be Trusted

People trust people. Include testimonials, reviews, and real stories from happy customers. Trust badges and guarantees also help reassure visitors they’re in the right place.


7. Test, Test, and Test Again

Sometimes, small changes make a big difference. Experiment with different headlines, button colors, or layouts to see what works best. Use A/B testing to find the winning formula.


8. Keep Forms Simple

If you’re asking for information, don’t overdo it. Only request what you really need. For example, asking for just a name and email is less intimidating than a long questionnaire.


9. Stay Consistent

If someone clicked on an ad to get to your landing page, make sure your message matches. They should immediately see the same offer or idea they were promised. This builds trust and keeps them engaged.


10. Keep an Eye on Performance

Use tools like Google Analytics to see how your landing page is doing. Are people staying? Are they clicking your CTA? Use the data to tweak and improve.

 

 

 

Wrap-Up

Creating a landing page that works isn’t a one-time job. It takes a mix of creativity, understanding your audience, and fine-tuning based on results. But when done right, your landing page can become a powerhouse for conversions. Start with these tips and watch your results improve!

 

 

Ready to Take Your Landing Page to the Next Level?

  Let us help you optimize your landing pages and boost your conversions. Talk To Our Expert Now to get started!
 
 

 

 

Top Features Every Successful Mobile App Needs to Drive Business Growth

Introduction

 

In today’s fast-paced digital world, a mobile app isn’t just a tool—it’s a strategic advantage for businesses aiming to thrive. With countless apps competing for attention, the key to success lies in integrating features that captivate users while supporting your business objectives.

 

The Must-Have Features for a Successful Mobile App

 

1. User-Centric Design

 

  • A visually appealing interface with intuitive navigation creates a seamless user experience.
  • Simple design increases retention and boosts satisfaction.
 

2. High Performance and Speed

 

  • Optimize load times to ensure uninterrupted functionality.
  • A fast app keeps users engaged and prevents churn.
 

3. Cross-Platform Compatibility

 

  • Reach a wider audience by supporting iOS, Android, and web platforms.
  • Consistent performance across devices enhances user accessibility.
 

4. Robust Data Security

 

  • Protect user data with features like encryption and two-factor authentication.
  • A secure app builds trust and fosters long-term loyalty
 

5. Personalized User Experiences

 

  • Implement tailored recommendations and customizable features.
  • Adapt to user preferences for deeper connections and higher engagement.
 

6. Offline Functionality

 

  • Ensure critical features are available without an internet connection.
  • Reliability enhances user satisfaction in all environments.
 

7. Push Notifications Done Right

 

  • Deliver timely and relevant updates to re-engage users.
  • Strike a balance to avoid overwhelming your audience.
 

8. Advanced Search Capabilities

 

  • Help users quickly find what they need with smart filters and search tools.
  • Simplify navigation for a more efficient experience.
 

9. Social Media Integration

 

  • Facilitate sharing and simplify logins with social media integration.
  • Expand your app’s reach through user-generated content.
 

10. Built-In Analytics Tools

 

  • Gain actionable insights by tracking user behavior and engagement.
  • Use data to continuously refine your app and meet user needs.

Why These Features Matter

A mobile app is more than just a product—it’s a powerful driver of business growth and customer engagement. These features work together to deliver exceptional value to users while supporting your broader objectives.


Let’s Build Something Exceptional

Looking to develop a standout mobile app? Let’s bring your vision to life with features designed to captivate users and grow your business. Contact us today and take the first step toward success

 

Transform Customer Support with WhatsApp API 🚀

Introduction

Are slow responses and missed messages holding your business back? Over 2 billion people use WhatsApp every day—it’s time to harness its power to revolutionize your customer support!

 

Why Your Business Needs a Customer Support Makeover

Every business—whether small, medium, or large—faces these common customer support challenges:

  • 🕒 Slow Response Times: Long waits lead to frustrated customers.
  • 🤝 Lack of Personalized Experiences: One-size-fits-all interactions don’t meet customer expectations.
  • 🔄 Handling High Query Volumes: Repetitive tasks overwhelm your support team, affecting productivity.

These hurdles can hurt your brand reputation, reduce loyalty, and limit growth opportunities

 

Revolutionize Support with WhatsApp API

 
 

WhatsApp API isn’t just another messaging platform—it’s a comprehensive solution for modern customer engagement. Here’s how it empowers businesses of all sizes:

  • 🚀 Real-Time Responses: Engage with customers instantly to resolve queries faster.
  • 🤖 Automated Efficiency: Use chatbots to streamline FAQs, order tracking, and appointment scheduling.
  • 🔒 Secure and Reliable: Offer end-to-end encrypted conversations that build trust.
  • 🎨 Rich Multimedia Support: Share videos, PDFs, and images to address complex issues easily.

From streamlining support for SMEs to scaling operations for enterprises, WhatsApp API adapts to your unique business needs.

 

Unlock the Future of Customer Engagement

📩 Ready to elevate your customer support? Let’s explore how WhatsApp API can transform your business operations. Drop a comment below or send us a message—we’d love to help!

 

EJAAS Middleware Solution Event 2024

"A Memorable Day at the
e-Jaas Middleware Solution Event 2024"

The e-Jaas Middleware Solution Event 2024 was nothing short of a remarkable experience! Held to highlight the transformative power of e-Jaas, this event brought together industry experts, professionals, and innovators under one roof to explore the possibilities of digital transformation and seamless e-invoicing compliance.

Relive The Event

Did you miss the event or want to revisit the highlights? Check out the vibrant photos from the day that captured the energy and excitement of our attendees and speakers.

Special Acknowledgement​

Our dedicated attendees who contributed their valuable time and perspectives.

Sigma Info Analytics for their unwavering support and partnership.​

Presenter for giving enlightening overview of e-invoicing regulations and compliance guidelines.

Event Feedbacks​

"The concepts were presented so clearly and in such an easy-to-understand way. It made the entire session very insightful and enjoyable."
— Azhanghani
“The session was engaging from start to finish! The content was delivered in a way that kept my interest throughout the event”
— Rajini Krishnan
“What I appreciated most was how the event encouraged active participation. It felt interactive and collaborative, which made it stand out.”
— Mimi

What’s Next?
Your Transformation Awaits!

💡 Ready to elevate your business operations and customer experience? 

Whether it’s adopting the latest tools or staying ahead of the competition, now is the time to take the next step.

A Comprehensive Guide to E-Invoicing for E-Commerce Transactions

Introduction

E-commerce transactions involve the sale or purchase of goods or services conducted over networks designed for receiving or placing orders. While the payment and delivery of goods or services may occur offline, the transaction itself is initiated digitally.

This guide explores how e-invoicing impacts e-commerce platform providers, purchasers, and merchants, providing clarity on compliance with tax legislation and facilitating seamless transactions.

Figure 1 : General overview of an e-commerce transaction
                                                     Figure 1 : General overview of an e-commerce transaction

 

Key Concepts of E-Invoicing in E-Commerce

 

What is an E-Commerce Transaction?

An e-commerce transaction refers to any sale or purchase of goods or services conducted over networks designed for placing orders. These transactions can occur between various parties, including individuals, businesses, and government entities. Payment and delivery may take place offline or through other non-digital methods.

E-Invoice Issuance Scenarios

 

1. Issuance of E-Invoice from E-Commerce Platform Provider to Purchaser

 
Current Practice

E-commerce platform providers issue invoices, bills, or receipts to purchasers to document transactions. Upon implementing e-invoicing, platform providers assume the role of the supplier to facilitate the issuance of:

  • E-Invoice: When requested by the purchaser.

  • Receipt: When no e-invoice is requested.

 
Compliance Notes

Issuing an e-invoice ensures compliance with tax laws such as the Income Tax Act 1967 and does not alter the commercial liability or nature of the transaction.

 
Consolidated E-Invoicing

For purchasers who do not request an e-invoice, providers can submit a consolidated e-invoice to the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM) within seven calendar days after month-end, barring specific exceptions.

 
Real-Life Scenario

Imagine a customer purchases a smartphone from an e-commerce platform. The platform issues a receipt for the transaction. If the customer later requests an e-invoice for tax purposes, the platform generates and sends it electronically, ensuring compliance with tax regulations.

 

2. Self-Billed E-Invoice Issuance to Merchants and Service Providers

 
Current Practice

Merchants and service providers receive payments from e-commerce platforms for goods sold or services rendered. Post e-invoice implementation, platform providers issue self-billed e-invoices to these merchants and service providers.

 
Compliance Notes

Self-billed e-invoices are issued solely to comply with tax laws and do not alter the commercial liabilities of the transaction. The issuance frequency aligns with existing statement issuance practices, such as daily or monthly.

 
Real-Life Scenario

A clothing merchant sells items via an e-commerce platform. The platform collects payments from buyers, deducts its service fee, and issues a self-billed e-invoice to the merchant reflecting the net payout.

 

3. E-Invoice Issuance for Platform Charges

 
Current Practice

E-commerce platforms charge merchants for using the platform. After implementing e-invoicing, the platform issues an e-invoice for these charges to the merchant.

 
Compliance Notes

This ensures accurate reporting and compliance with tax laws, with the e-commerce platform acting as the supplier.

 
Real-Life Scenario

A service provider subscribes to an e-commerce platform’s premium membership plan. The platform issues an e-invoice to the service provider detailing the subscription fee and applicable taxes.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

Q1. Who is responsible for issuing the e-invoice in e-commerce transactions?

The e-commerce platform provider acts as the supplier responsible for issuing e-invoices to purchasers, merchants, or service providers as applicable.

Q2. What happens if a purchaser does not request an e-invoice?

The platform provider can aggregate such transactions and submit a consolidated e-invoice to the IRBM within seven days after the end of the month.

Q3. Do merchants need to issue e-invoices?

No, the responsibility lies with the e-commerce platform provider. Merchants and service providers do not need to issue separate e-invoices for transactions conducted on the platform.

Q4. What details are required in an e-invoice?

An e-invoice must include data fields outlined in the e-Invoice Guideline, such as transaction details, purchaser’s information, and tax-related data.

Q5. Does issuing an e-invoice alter the nature of the transaction?

No, e-invoicing is a compliance measure and does not affect the commercial nature or liabilities of the transaction.

 

User Guide for Malaysian Sellers: Goods Sold or Services Rendered to Foreign Purchasers

   Introduction

With the introduction of e-Invoicing in Malaysia, businesses are required to adopt a standardized process for documenting transactions, including those involving foreign purchasers. This guide provides Malaysian sellers with a comprehensive overview of how to issue e-Invoices for goods sold or services rendered to foreign purchasers. By understanding these steps and exceptions, sellers can ensure compliance with the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM) guidelines and streamline cross-border transaction reporting.

 

Figure 1: Transaction flow between Malaysian Seller (Supplier) and Foreign Purchaser (Buyer)

 

This guide highlights the necessary steps, data requirements, and practical considerations for e-Invoicing, while addressing unique challenges when dealing with foreign purchasers who are outside the MyInvois system.

 

    Steps for Issuing E-invoice

  Step 1: Issuing the e-Invoice

Upon completing a sale or service transaction, the Malaysian seller must issue an e-Invoice to the foreign purchaser. The e-Invoice will document the transaction as taxable income and serve as a record for both parties.

 

  • Supplier: Malaysian Seller
  • Buyer: Foreign Purchaser

Step 2: Completing the Required Fields

Sellers must fill in all mandatory fields as outlined in Appendices 1 and 2 of the e-Invoice Guidelines.

In cases where certain details are unavailable:

 

  • If a detail is not applicable to the foreign purchaser, the seller must input “NA” (e.g., local tax details).
  • If information is missing because it was not provided by the foreign purchaser, the seller must also use “NA.”

Step 3: Adhering to the Workflow

The Malaysian seller must follow the e-Invoice workflow described in the guidelines, which can be implemented either through the MyInvois Portal or via API. The following exceptions apply:

 

  1. Notifications
  2. Proof of Income
  3. Error Management

Real Life Scenario

ABC Tech Solutions, a Malaysian software development company, delivers a custom software project worth RM 50,000 to XYZ International, a client based in Singapore.

To comply with the e-Invoicing requirements, ABC Tech Solutions generates an e-Invoice, including transaction details such as the service description, total payment, and applicable tax information. Since XYZ International is a foreign purchaser, some local fields like tax registration number are not applicable. ABC Tech Solutions inputs “NA” for these fields and submits the e-Invoice through the MyInvois Portal.

Once validated by IRBM, the e-Invoice serves as proof of income for ABC Tech Solutions. The company shares a PDF copy of the validated e-Invoice with XYZ International for record purposes. Later, XYZ International identifies an overcharge in the invoice, prompting ABC Tech Solutions to issue a credit note e-Invoice to adjust the transaction.


     Conclusion

The implementation of e-Invoicing marks a significant step forward in streamlining and standardizing transaction reporting for Malaysian sellers. For cross-border transactions, especially those involving foreign purchasers, compliance with the outlined processes is essential to ensure smooth operations and adherence to the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM) requirements. By following this guide, Malaysian sellers can handle e-Invoices effectively while minimizing errors and ensuring transparency in their records.


   What’s Next?

In the next article of this series, we’ll delve into E-Commerce Transactions and explore the unique requirements for e-Invoicing in the online marketplace. This comprehensive guide will address the specific guidelines for documenting online sales and purchases, ensuring that your digital transactions are fully compliant with Malaysia’s e-Invoice regulations.

Stay tuned to learn how e-Invoicing impacts e-commerce and gain practical insights for smooth implementation. Don’t miss out—get ready to elevate your understanding of e-Invoicing in the digital age!


    FAQs : Cross Border Transactions

1. Do Malaysian sellers need to issue e-Invoices for foreign purchasers?

Yes, all Malaysian sellers must issue e-Invoices for transactions with foreign purchasers to comply with IRBM regulations.

2. What should Malaysian sellers do if required details for foreign purchasers are unavailable?

Sellers should input “NA” in fields where information is either not applicable or unavailable due to a lack of details from the foreign purchaser.

3. Will foreign purchasers receive notifications about validated e-Invoices?

No, foreign purchasers are not part of the MyInvois system and will not receive notifications from IRBM. Sellers may share a visual copy of the validated e-Invoice with the foreign purchaser for record purposes.

4. How should Malaysian sellers address errors in validated e-Invoices issued to foreign purchasers?

Errors must be corrected by issuing a credit note, debit note, or refund note e-Invoice, depending on the type of correction required.

5. Are foreign sellers required to issue e-Invoices to Malaysian purchasers?

No, foreign sellers are not obligated to issue e-Invoices under Malaysia’s system. However, Malaysian purchasers must ensure proper documentation and compliance with local tax requirements.

Cross-Border Transactions: A Guide for Malaysian Buyers

Introduction

In an increasingly globalized world, cross-border transactions are commonplace for Malaysian businesses. Whether dealing with foreign suppliers or selling to international buyers, understanding the e-Invoicing requirements for such transactions is crucial. This guide covers two key areas:

 

  1. Goods Sold or Services Rendered by a Foreign Seller (Supplier) to a Malaysian Purchaser (Buyer)
  2. Goods Sold or Services Rendered by a Malaysian Seller (Supplier) to a Foreign Purchaser (Buyer)

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to handle e-Invoicing for these transactions and ensure compliance with Malaysian tax regulations.

Goods Sold or Services Rendered by a Foreign Seller to a Malaysian Purchaser

 
Overview

In cross-border transactions, when a Malaysian business purchases goods or services from a foreign supplier, the foreign seller issues an invoice or bill as per their local regulations. However, since foreign suppliers are not bound by Malaysian e-invoicing mandates, Malaysian buyers must issue a self-billed e-invoice to record the expense. This is crucial for tax documentation and compliance in Malaysia.

Figure 1: Transaction flow between Foreign Seller (Supplier) and Malaysian Purchaser (Buyer)

Source: LHDN e-Invoice Guidelines, © LHDN Malaysia.

 

Steps for Issuing a Self-Billed E-Invoice by the Malaysian Purchaser

When a foreign supplier sells goods or services to a Malaysian buyer, the steps for issuing a self-billed e-invoice are as follows:

Step 1: Invoice Issued by Foreign Seller Once the foreign seller concludes a sale, they will issue an invoice or receipt to the Malaysian purchaser. This invoice will follow the invoicing requirements of the foreign seller’s country and serve as a record of the income generated from the transaction.

Step 2: Malaysian Purchaser Issues Self-Billed E-Invoice To document the expense for tax purposes, the Malaysian purchaser assumes the role of the “supplier” and must issue a self-billed e-invoice. The purchaser should refer to the original invoice provided by the foreign seller to fill in the necessary details. If any required details are missing or not applicable, the purchaser can input “NA” where relevant.

Step 3: Validation by IRBM The self-billed e-invoice will be submitted via the MyInvois Portal or API, as per the guidelines provided by the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM). Once validated, the Malaysian purchaser will receive a notification confirming the validity of the invoice. The foreign seller will not receive this notification.

Step 4: Proof of Expense The validated self-billed e-invoice will serve as proof of the expense for the Malaysian purchaser. There is no obligation for the purchaser to share this self-billed e-invoice with the foreign seller. However, it is essential for the purchaser to retain this document for tax reporting purposes.

 

Real Life Scenario

Let’s look at a real-life scenario to understand the process more clearly:

Scenario ABC Foods Sdn Bhd, a Malaysian company, has contracted with XYZ Consulting Ltd, a consultancy firm based in Australia, for professional services. XYZ Consulting Ltd issues an invoice amounting to RM150,000 for their services. Since the service is subject to Malaysia’s service tax on imported services, ABC Foods Sdn Bhd needs to issue a self-billed e-invoice for tax purposes.

ABC Foods Sdn Bhd refers to the invoice from XYZ Consulting Ltd to input the required details, such as the service description, transaction amount, and supplier’s details. Since XYZ Consulting Ltd does not have a Malaysian TIN, ABC Foods Sdn Bhd enters “NA” in the TIN field, as per the guidelines.

The self-billed e-invoice is then submitted to the MyInvois Portal for validation, and ABC Foods Sdn Bhd receives a notification from IRBM confirming the invoice’s validity. This self-billed e-invoice is retained by ABC Foods Sdn Bhd as proof of the expense and used for tax reporting.


Conclusion

This article has provided a clear guide on handling e-Invoicing for Goods Sold or Services Rendered by a Foreign Seller (Supplier) to a Malaysian Purchaser (Buyer), along with a practical scenario to illustrate the process. Following these steps ensures compliance and proper documentation for Malaysian businesses dealing with international suppliers.

In our next article, we’ll shift focus to Goods Sold or Services Rendered by a Malaysian Seller (Supplier) to a Foreign Purchaser (Buyer), outlining the requirements for Malaysian businesses exporting goods or services. Be sure to follow our page and stay updated, as this next piece will complete your understanding of e-Invoicing for cross-border transactions.

Stay tuned!

Understanding Self-Billed E-Invoices: A Complete Guide

Introduction

In the world of e-invoicing, clarity and compliance are crucial. When a sale or transaction is completed, the Supplier issues an e-Invoice. This serves as proof of income for the Supplier and a record of expenses for the Buyer. However, there are specific situations where another party, other than the Supplier, must issue a self-billed e-Invoice.

When to Use Self-Billed E-Invoices

In particular circumstances, the Buyer is responsible for issuing self-billed e-Invoices. Here are the scenarios where this applies:

      1. Payments to Agents or Distributors: If you’re making payments to agents, dealers, or distributors, a self-billed e-Invoice is necessary. (See Section 9 of the e-Invoice Specific Guideline for more details.)

      1. Foreign Suppliers: For goods sold or services rendered by foreign suppliers, a self-billed e-Invoice must be issued. (Refer to Section 10.4 for further details.)

      1. Profit Distribution: In cases of profit distributions, such as dividends, the Buyer will issue a self-billed e-Invoice. (More information can be found in Section 11.)

      1. E-commerce Transactions: Self-billed e-Invoices are required for electronic commerce transactions as outlined in Section 14.

      1. Payouts for Betting or Gaming Winnings: For payouts to all betting and gaming winners.

      1. Transactions with Individuals: If dealing with individuals who aren’t running a business, self-billed e-Invoices apply, but only if other circumstances don’t apply.

      1. Interest Payments: Generally, interest payments must be handled by the institution charging interest, but there are exceptions for certain payments.

      1. Insurance Claims and Compensation: Claim, compensation, or benefit payments from an insurance business require a self-billed e-Invoice.

    Role of the Buyer in Issuing Self-Billed E-Invoices

    When a Buyer needs to issue a self-billed e-Invoice, they essentially take on the role of the Supplier. They submit the e-Invoice to the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM) for validation. Once validated, this e-Invoice serves as proof of expense for tax purposes, meaning the actual Supplier doesn’t have to issue an additional invoice for that transaction.

    It’s crucial that the Buyer shares the validated self-billed e-Invoice with the Supplier. When submitting the e-Invoice for validation via the MyInvois Portal, a QR code is generated, allowing for easy validation through the portal. If submitting via API transmission, the Buyer must ensure the QR code is included before sharing.

    Recognizing practical challenges in this process, the IRBM has allowed flexibility for Buyers to share either the validated self-billed e-Invoice or a visual representation with the Supplier for nowParties Involved in Self-Billed E-Invoices

    The parties in a self-billed e-Invoice scenario include the Buyer, who acts as the Supplier, and the actual Supplier.

     

    Additional Requirements for Self-Billed E-Invoices

    To streamline the e-Invoice issuance process, the IRBM has made provisions for individual Suppliers. If an individual Supplier provides either a Tax Identification Number (TIN) or MyKad/MyTentera identification number (instead of both), the Buyer should include the following details:

     

    Real-Life Scenario: A Practical Example

    Let’s take a look at a real-life scenario to illustrate this process:

    Aida works at Tech Solutions Sdn Bhd, where she’s in charge of organizing client meetings. On March 15, 2025, she buys pastries from a local café, Munchies Delight, to treat her clients during a meeting. The café owner, Mr. Lim, hands Aida a handwritten receipt, as he hasn’t yet started issuing e-Invoices.

    For this purchase, Tech Solutions is neither required nor allowed to issue a self-billed e-Invoice. Aida can use the handwritten receipt for tax purposes. However, with the full implementation of e-Invoicing set for July 1, 2025, Mr. Lim will need to start issuing e-Invoices for all his sales.

     

    Conclusion

    Self-billed e-invoices offer a streamlined approach for buyers in specific circumstances, allowing them to maintain accurate records and comply with tax regulations. Understanding when and how to issue self-billed e-invoices can significantly benefit businesses in managing their financial transactions effectively.

     

    What’s Next?

    In our upcoming article, we will delve into Cross-Border Transactions, exploring the unique challenges and requirements associated with issuing e-invoices for international dealings. Stay tuned to enhance your understanding of global e-invoicing practices and ensure your business is compliant in a dynamic market!

     

    FAQs About Self-Billed E-Invoices

    1. What is a self-billed e-Invoice?

    A self-billed e-Invoice is issued by the Buyer instead of the Supplier in certain situations, primarily to serve as proof of expense for tax purposes.

    2. When should a Buyer issue a self-billed e-Invoice?

    Buyers must issue self-billed e-Invoices for specific transactions such as payments to agents, goods from foreign suppliers, and profit distributions, among others.

    3. How does the Buyer validate the self-billed e-Invoice?

    The Buyer submits the self-billed e-Invoice to the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM) for validation. Once approved, they can use it for tax deductions.

    4. What happens if the Buyer doesn’t share the validated self-billed e-Invoice with the Supplier?

    It’s essential for the Buyer to share the validated e-Invoice with the Supplier to avoid any compliance issues. If this is not done, it may lead to complications in tax reporting.

    5. Can individual Suppliers provide only a TIN or identification number?

    Yes, individual Suppliers can provide either a TIN or a MyKad/MyTentera identification number. The Buyer must input the provided details for the issuance of the self-billed e-Invoic