What specific tax amount is Najib being assessed for by the Inland Revenue Board?

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Najib Faces RM1.69 Billion Tax Assessment

Datuk Seri Najib Razak is facing an additional tax assessment of RM1.69 billion from the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN). This assessment pertains to the tax period spanning from 2011 to 2017 and is reportedly linked to an alleged RM8 billion donation that Najib claims was allocated for political and welfare purposes.
Tax Arrears and Legal Challenges

The substantial tax sum of RM1.69 billion forms the basis of the current dispute. This amount has reportedly increased from an initial RM1.46 billion due to penalties and accrued interest. Najib has been challenging bankruptcy notices related to these assessments, arguing that they are flawed and should not be enforced while related legal proceedings are ongoing.
High Court Ruling on Bankruptcy Proceedings

Previously, the High Court dismissed applications made by both Najib and his son, Nazifuddin, to stay bankruptcy proceedings concerning unpaid tax arrears. Najib's son, Nazifuddin, also faces separate tax arrears amounting to RM37.6 million. The High Court's decision affirmed that pending appeals do not exempt taxpayers from recovery actions initiated by the LHDN.
"Pay First, Talk Later" Principle

The Inland Revenue Board, represented by senior revenue counsel Norhisham Ahmad, has argued that there are no special circumstances to warrant a stay of proceedings. Their stance is supported by a Federal Court ruling from October 2023, which upheld the principle that tax assessments must be settled regardless of any ongoing appeals. This "pay first, talk later" approach is a cornerstone of tax recovery procedures.
Impact on Appeal Proceedings

Lawyer Tan Sri Shafee Abdullah has argued that proceeding with the bankruptcy action against Najib would render his appeal before the Special Commissioners of Income Tax (SCIT) in September "meaningless." He warned that a bankruptcy declaration would not only restrict Najib's activities but also place his assets under the control of the director-general of insolvency, effectively hindering his ability to challenge the tax assessment. The Court of Appeal is expected to deliver its decision on the stay of proceedings on September 4.

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What specific tax amount is Najib being assessed for by the Inland Revenue Board?

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