Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Money

tech

entrepreneur

crypto

millionaire

website

domain

A Malaysian technopreneur has captured global attention after selling the internet domain AI.com for US$70 million (approximately RM276 million) &mdash; a figure widely regarded as the highest publicly disclosed domain name sale in history.
The buyer is Kris Marszalek, co-founder and chief executive officer of Crypto.com, who confirmed that the domain was acquired in April 2025 and paid for entirely in cryptocurrency. The transaction eclipses previous confirmed record sales, including CarInsurance.com, which sold for US$49.7 million in 2010.
The sale places AI.com among the most valuable pieces of digital real estate ever traded, highlighting the growing strategic importance of premium, category-defining domain names in the age of artificial intelligence.
A Domain Bought in Childhood
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/072d2d45063cc29648a54ade929ac86fb466664d0f69eea9f6a8be563ce14011" />
The seller, Arsyan Ismail, is a Malaysian technology entrepreneur whose connection to AI.com dates back more than three decades. In 1993, at just 10 years old, Arsyan purchased the domain for US$100, using his mother&rsquo;s credit card &mdash; a decision that reportedly earned him a scolding at the time.
According to Arsyan, the purchase was driven by a personal reason: &ldquo;AI&rdquo; are his initials. What began as a childhood curiosity would later become one of the most valuable digital assets in the world, delivering an estimated 700,000-fold return on investment.
A Career Built on Early Tech Adoption
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ad1920b7b5c8f2454f56161cf63e946a9945a0cfafe7a8620cb0e7434ead0f83" />
Arsyan&rsquo;s early interest in the internet evolved into a long career in technology. By the age of 15, he had already launched his first internet-based project. In 2003, he worked on Kawanster, often described as Malaysia&rsquo;s first social networking platform and a local equivalent to Friendster.
He later became a senior programmer at Nuffnang, Malaysia&rsquo;s pioneering blog advertising network, before joining Friendster itself as a senior web developer. In 2013, Arsyan founded 1337 Tech, a startup focused on application development for businesses.
He was also an early believer in Bitcoin and blockchain technologies, working on cryptocurrency-related projects as early as 2014, well before digital assets gained mainstream attention.
Crypto.com&rsquo;s Strategic Bet on AI
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6e04d265a3fb9c342d4878662b763664edef4ac361ce4610a53522fbdcbac2dd" />
The acquisition of AI.com is a strategic move by Marszalek, who described ownership of such a primary category domain as essential for long-term brand positioning.
Under its new ownership, AI.com now serves as the foundation for a consumer-focused AI platform offering personal AI agents. These agents are designed to go beyond basic chat functions, with capabilities that include sending messages, managing applications, trading stocks, organising work, and executing tasks across multiple apps.
According to the company, a key differentiator is the platform&rsquo;s ability to allow agents to autonomously develop missing features to complete real-world tasks, with improvements shared across the network to enhance overall performance.
A Super Bowl Launch and AGI Ambitions
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/ac2AqjBNxj">https://t.co/ac2AqjBNxj</a> launching during Super Bowl this Sunday. The countdown begins.. <a href="https://t.co/VWX0e63xG9">https://t.co/VWX0e63xG9</a>
&mdash; Kris | ai.com (@kris) <a href="https://twitter.com/kris/status/2019960287466778984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The platform made its high-profile debut during Super Bowl LX on 8 February, following months of quiet development. Marszalek has stated that AI.com is on a mission to accelerate the arrival of artificial general intelligence (AGI) by building a decentralised network of self-improving AI agents.
Following the acquisition, Marszalek will continue to serve as CEO of both Crypto.com and AI.com, signalling a convergence of fintech, blockchain, and artificial intelligence under a single leadership vision.
More Than Just a Web Address
Beyond its record-breaking price, the sale of AI.com underscores a broader shift in how domain names are valued. Ultra-short, recognisable domains are increasingly viewed as strategic digital assets, comparable to prime real estate in the physical world.
For Malaysia, the transaction highlights the growing presence of local entrepreneurs in high-value global technology deals &mdash; not merely as consumers of innovation, but as owners of assets that shape future digital narratives.
Reflecting on the deal, Arsyan offered one piece of advice to others navigating negotiations at this level: never over-negotiate with a billionaire. While details of the transaction remain protected by a non-disclosure agreement, the outcome speaks for itself &mdash; a childhood purchase that evolved into one of the most significant digital asset sales the internet has ever seen.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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From being scolded for spending US$100 on his mum’s credit card to a multi-million-dollar investment.

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From A US$100 Purchase To A US$70 Million Payday: How Malaysian Entrepreneur Arsyan Ismail Sold AI.com For A Record Sum

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AXE MLBB

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BIllie Eilish UMMY

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Coke Fifa

A cryptocurrency hack has taken an unusual turn after an attacker stole around 4,000 Bitcoin worth approximately US$320 million from the Liquid Network, only to return most of the funds after the vulnerability behind the incident was patched.
The attacker, whose identity remains unknown, has been described by Liquid Network as a &ldquo;purported white-hat hacker&rdquo; &mdash; an ethical hacker who exploits security vulnerabilities to expose weaknesses rather than simply taking funds for personal gain.
While around 85% of the stolen Bitcoin has now been returned, roughly 598 BTC, worth about US$47 million, remains outstanding. The incident has also forced Liquid Network to pause activity while further security measures are put in place.
What Is Liquid Network?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9946993bb795285f9e9d336b1165664ebe7e79fd0112dc1d062f186edef2856f" />
Liquid Network is a Bitcoin sidechain developed by Blockstream and launched in 2018. It was designed to make Bitcoin transactions faster and more efficient, particularly for cryptocurrency exchanges and financial institutions that need to settle trades quickly.
The main Bitcoin blockchain can take time to confirm transactions, especially when the network is busy. Liquid works differently by allowing users to move Bitcoin into the network and receive an equivalent amount of Liquid Bitcoin (L-BTC), which can then be transferred more quickly.
The network is managed by the Liquid Federation, a group of more than 80 companies including cryptocurrency exchanges, infrastructure providers and other digital-asset businesses. Around 15 federation members operate the network&rsquo;s functionary nodes that play a key role in processing transactions.
How Did The Bitcoin Hack Happen?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e66b57c5de0ce94ec6b4360f9fc2277e91534d4df7557c282c4fba34f4e39ff2" />
The incident was not the result of a stolen password or compromised private key.
Instead, the attacker exploited a software vulnerability involving Elements, the open-source technology underpinning Liquid Network.
According to reports, the vulnerability allowed the attacker to generate around 4,000 L-BTC without first depositing the equivalent amount of real Bitcoin. The attacker then moved the newly created tokens through SideSwap, a legitimate platform used to convert L-BTC back into Bitcoin.
SideSwap processed the transaction as valid because it could not distinguish the artificially created L-BTC from legitimate tokens. The Liquid Federation subsequently released nearly 4,000 real BTC to the attacker.
Liquid said the transaction was authorised through its peg-out system and that the relevant cryptographic key itself had not been compromised. Other digital assets on the Liquid sidechain were not affected.
The Hacker Says They Are A &lsquo;White Hat&rsquo;
The story became even more unusual when the attacker began communicating with Liquid and Blockstream through messages recorded on the Bitcoin blockchain. The hacker reportedly told the network&rsquo;s maintainers to fix the vulnerability first and patch every affected node, promising to return the Bitcoin once the system had been secured.
That led to the attacker being described as a possible white-hat hacker. In cybersecurity, white-hat hackers may deliberately exploit vulnerabilities to demonstrate that a system can be breached, sometimes returning stolen assets after a fix or receiving a bounty for identifying the flaw.
However, the label remains unconfirmed, and the hacker&rsquo;s identity and motivations have not been established.
Around 3,400 Bitcoin Returned
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Update: 3,400 BTC of the roughly 4,000 BTC withdrawn on September 6 has been returned to the <a href="https://x.com/Liquid_BTC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Liquid_BTC</a> Federation wallet. The return followed confirmation from <a href="https://x.com/Blockstream?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Blockstream</a> that the affected bridge nodes have been patched. Approximately 598 BTC remains outstanding, and&hellip;
&mdash; Samson Mow (@Excellion) <a href="https://x.com/Excellion/status/2097060644977877433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The unusual promise was partially fulfilled after Blockstream said the affected bridge nodes had been patched.
Following confirmation of the fix, the attacker returned approximately 3,400 BTC to the Liquid Federation&rsquo;s wallet, leaving about 598.5 BTC, worth roughly US$47 million, still in the attacker&rsquo;s possession. Despite the return of most of the funds, Liquid Network has not immediately resumed normal activity.
The network remains paused while Blockstream and Federation members carry out additional fixes, address the wider security implications and prepare for a safer restart. Users have also been warned not to send Bitcoin to Liquid peg-in addresses until the network confirms that operations have resumed.
One Of The Biggest Crypto Heists Of 2026
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/425ad94fb3bf6902c78749214836873c531d689b69f53a2018cc6c28845eda22" />
The scale of the incident makes it one of the largest cryptocurrency thefts reported this year.
The attack also highlights a wider cybersecurity problem affecting the digital-asset industry. Blockchain security firm PeckShield recorded 50 major crypto hacks in August 2026, with total losses of around US$136.3 million. That was actually lower than July&rsquo;s losses despite the number of attacks increasing by 67%.
Liquid&rsquo;s case is particularly notable because the attackers did not simply gain access to a wallet and transfer existing funds. Instead, the vulnerability allowed fraudulent L-BTC to be generated and ultimately exchanged for genuine Bitcoin held in reserve.
Crypto Security Faces Another Major Test
The Liquid Network incident comes after several other high-profile cryptocurrency security breaches this year.
A separate vulnerability involving Coldcard hardware wallets led to hundreds of Bitcoin being drained from affected devices, while a South Korean government agency was also embarrassed after accidentally revealing a cryptocurrency wallet recovery phrase in a public photograph. The latter incident resulted in digital assets worth millions of dollars being moved from the wallet.
Together, these incidents show that cryptocurrency security risks can come from many different points &mdash; including software vulnerabilities, transaction infrastructure and even basic operational mistakes.
For Liquid Network, the immediate priority is now recovering the remaining funds and ensuring that the vulnerability cannot be exploited again.
What started as a US$320 million Bitcoin heist has therefore become one of the stranger crypto security stories of 2026: an attacker drained almost the entire reserve, demanded that the vulnerability be fixed, and then returned most of the stolen Bitcoin.
The twist may sound almost too convenient, but the remaining US$47 million serves as a reminder that, white hat or not, the incident is far from completely resolved.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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White hat or not, hacking into systems and taking funds isn’t something to copy. Always protect, report vulnerabilities and stay on the right side of the law.

301378b26d9450705ec699cc45a860d4b026803df6283d174e90233ba16f1d1d

Hacker Steals Around US$320 Million In Bitcoin Then Returns Most Of It

Malaysians who rely heavily on their vehicles have some good news as the government has restored the monthly BUDI95 subsidised RON95 quota to 300 litres, effective 1 September 2026.
The increase reverses the temporary reduction from 300 litres to 200 litres introduced in April. At the same time, eligible private diesel-powered pick-up and jeep owners can now receive up to 400 litres of subsidised diesel per month.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the changes during his National Day address on 30 August, saying the government was acting ahead of Budget 2027 because cost-of-living pressures could not wait until October. The Finance Ministry subsequently confirmed that the revised quotas would be implemented automatically for eligible existing recipients.
BUDI95 Quota Returns To 300 Litres
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1c0a538b35a9c667136fb2958d7b5d68221ef42fc905ef0df110ceeac0f0d608" />
Under BUDI MADANI RON95 (BUDI95), eligible Malaysians can purchase subsidised RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre.
From 1 September, the basic monthly eligibility limit has increased from 200 litres to 300 litres, essentially restoring the quota that was in place when BUDI95 was first introduced in September 2025.
The government said around 16 million Malaysians benefit from subsidised RON95 under the programme. The adjustment is automatic for existing eligible BUDI95 recipients, meaning they do not need to submit a new application simply because the quota has increased.
The original reduction to 200 litres took effect on 1 April 2026 as the government responded to higher global crude oil prices and increased subsidy costs.
Why Was The Quota Reduced In The First Place?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9e79cc3c7237a8dbc6d29e0fa729df2fc45eea9b03966e9e578af01868977359" />
The 200-litre limit was introduced as a temporary measure amid significant pressure on the government's fuel subsidy bill.
At the time, the government said the adjustment was necessary as international oil prices rose sharply, increasing the cost of maintaining subsidised fuel. However, the lower quota also prompted complaints from some motorists, particularly those who travel long distances for work, family commitments or business.
With the latest adjustment, the government says it has taken into account the needs of Malaysians who rely heavily on their vehicles, including those travelling long distances and small traders who depend on vehicles for their livelihoods.
The Finance Ministry also said the restoration was made possible by better fuel supply management, stronger enforcement, improved economic performance and the government's current financial capacity.
BUDI Diesel Quota Can Go Up To 400 Litres
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/886a2038177948d8613242bea037cb47f3a320f1e8a91f47fb76d2fc1d4f229f" />
There is also an increase for eligible diesel vehicle owners.
The basic BUDI Diesel monthly entitlement has been restored to 300 litres, with subsidised diesel remaining at RM2.10 per litre.
Eligible owners of private diesel-powered pick-up trucks and jeeps can apply for an additional 100 litres, bringing their total monthly entitlement to up to 400 litres.
More than half a million eligible diesel vehicle owners can apply for the additional allocation.
Those who were already approved for the extra 100 litres do not need to apply again, as their entitlement will be automatically adjusted to 400 litres from 1 September. Those who have not applied can submit their application through the BUDI MADANI portal.
No Need To Reapply For The Basic Increase
For existing BUDI95 and BUDI Diesel recipients, the return to the higher basic quota is automatic, subject to their existing eligibility.
This means eligible BUDI95 users will receive the revised 300-litre monthly limit, while eligible BUDI Diesel recipients will receive the applicable revised allocation without having to restart the application process.
For pick-up and jeep owners seeking the additional 100 litres under BUDI Diesel, a separate application is still required unless they have already received approval previously.
Government Says Subsidies Must Still Be Protected From Misuse
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fcb9910f3e2295225b40eb53ad336fa9cd144b1d06d15d597ccdc14e2ad578fc" />
Despite increasing the quotas, the government said it would continue strengthening measures to prevent subsidy leakage, smuggling and misuse.
BUDI95 was originally designed as a targeted fuel subsidy system, with eligibility tied to Malaysian citizenship and driving licence information.
When the programme was launched, the government said the 300-litre ceiling was already sufficient for the overwhelming majority of private motorists, based on national vehicle usage data.
The latest restoration therefore does not represent a return to an unrestricted blanket petrol subsidy.
What Malaysians Need To Know
For eligible motorists, the changes from 1 September 2026 are straightforward:
BUDI95: Up to 300 litres of subsidised RON95 per month at RM1.99 per litre.
BUDI Diesel: Up to 300 litres per month at RM2.10 per litre for eligible recipients.
Private diesel pick-up and jeep owners: Up to 400 litres per month with the additional 100-litre allocation, subject to eligibility and application requirements.
Anwar has positioned the move as an immediate measure to help ease cost-of-living pressures before Budget 2027, which is due to be tabled in October.
For millions of Malaysians, the biggest takeaway is simple: the 200-litre BUDI95 limit is gone, and the monthly subsidised petrol quota is back to 300 litres from 1 September.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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BUDI95 and BUDI Diesel quotas are back up from September, giving eligible Malaysians higher monthly fuel limits.

0ef6115467d6dda8329a9a784d59c490cbc358aa1f6cf8bd70b1345c79d476c7

BUDI95 Quota Restored To 300 Litres, BUDI Diesel Raised To 400 Litres From September

TNG eWallet users now have another option when it comes to accessing financing, following a new partnership between TNG Digital and GXBank.
Through the integration, eligible users can now apply for GXBank FlexiCredit directly through the CashLoan feature in the TNG eWallet app, without having to open a separate GXBank bank account.
The move expands TNG eWallet&rsquo;s growing financial services ecosystem, giving its more than 27 million verified users access to another form of regulated financing through an app many already use for their daily transactions.
What Is GXBank FlexiCredit?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/92d93520ecc80fe04982ad00ae51835720ae6a4d0f62dc20cdee7fe6d75444e4" />
Unlike a conventional personal loan that gives you a fixed lump sum, FlexiCredit works as a revolving line of credit.
Once approved, users receive a credit limit of up to RM150,000, which they can draw from whenever they need it. Instead of borrowing the entire amount upfront, users only take out the money they require.
As the amount borrowed is repaid, the available credit limit is replenished, meaning users can access the remaining facility again without submitting a new application. GXBank says there are also no annual or processing fees, while interest is only charged on the amount actually drawn down.
Repayment periods range from six to 60 months, with flat interest rates starting from 3.78% per annum, equivalent to an effective interest rate of 6.45% per annum.
Apply Without Opening A New Bank Account
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/876a223f059ee8f8e3b6533bf53769016e60dc3fb77b3174590361e7e7f6512e" />
One of the main benefits of the new TNG eWallet integration is that eligible users do not need to open a separate GXBank account to apply.
The application can be completed through GOFinance &gt; CashLoan within the TNG eWallet app.
Users can select their preferred credit limit and repayment tenure, provide their income information and complete the required identity verification. Depending on their employment status, supporting documents such as an EPF statement or bank statement may also be required.
TNG Digital and GXBank said the integration is aimed at making regulated financing more accessible, particularly for Malaysians who may have limited credit history or find traditional banking processes more difficult to navigate.
Who Can Apply For FlexiCredit?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ee07f0996c5f45fbe73d571754b6048b6eea83f80c91b7474703f3b61b9877d9" />
The facility is available to eligible Malaysian citizens who meet GXBank's requirements.
Applicants need to have a fully verified TNG eWallet account and meet the applicable age and income criteria. The stated minimum gross income is RM1,500 per month, or RM18,000 annually, with both salaried and self-employed individuals able to apply.
However, approval is not guaranteed simply because someone meets the basic requirements.
The financing offer shown through CashLoan is determined based on the applicant's eligibility, requested amount and repayment period, as well as the bank's credit assessment and applicable regulatory requirements.
How To Apply Through TNG eWallet
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/29A9JkvkrFk" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
The application process is designed to be completed digitally.
After opening the TNG eWallet app, users can tap GOFinance, head to CashLoan and select GXBank FlexiCredit.
From there, applicants can choose their desired credit limit and repayment tenure before providing their financial and employment details.
Once submitted, applications can typically be processed within minutes, although the actual approval time may vary depending on the information and documents required.
Approved users can then access their available credit through the CashLoan dashboard and draw down funds when needed.
What Could Malaysians Use It For?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/24e34c656579bf901b537f43fbb8bcb6153a30f6f5e80c23ab5786b6e5661fc0" />
According to GXBank, existing FlexiCredit users are using the facility for purposes including emergencies, managing cash flow and making larger purchases.
Its revolving structure could be useful for people who do not necessarily need a large amount of money at once but want access to an approved credit facility when unexpected expenses arise.
However, as with any form of borrowing, users should consider the interest costs and ensure they are comfortable with the repayment commitments before drawing down funds.
Part Of TNG eWallet's Growing Financial Ecosystem
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/35d58c747003fdd8d6d5a745335d6dd165bee65e679b50709458dc9f430ca6d7" />
The partnership is part of TNG Digital's wider push to turn TNG eWallet into more than just a payments platform.
Its GOFinance hub already brings together various financial services, including investments, insurance, credit and remittance options. By integrating products from financial institutions such as GXBank, TNG Digital is aiming to create a broader financial ecosystem within a platform Malaysians already use regularly.
For GXBank, meanwhile, bringing FlexiCredit directly into TNG eWallet provides another way to reach customers who may prefer managing their finances digitally.
Another Step Into Digital Banking
The new integration means eligible Malaysians can now access up to RM150,000 in revolving credit through TNG eWallet, without needing to separately sign up for a GXBank account.
With flexible repayment periods and the ability to draw funds only when needed, FlexiCredit is positioned as an alternative to traditional lump-sum personal loans.
Still, the key point is that it remains a credit facility, not free cash. Users should carefully consider the interest rate, repayment period and amount they can realistically afford before using it.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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You can now apply for GXBank FlexiCredit via TNG eWallet without opening a separate bank account.

90898026bdd77e006ef8955e492d9611714d5d21749d0e4bc8ec787261c203bb

TNG eWallet Users Can Now Apply For GXBank FlexiCredit Of Up To RM150,000

Malaysia is exploring ways to reform its tax system by studying whether selected Goods and Services Tax (GST) mechanisms could be incorporated into the existing Sales and Services Tax (SST).
Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the aim is to create a more progressive and efficient tax system, but stressed that the government is not looking to simply reinstate the previous 6% GST.
The Finance Ministry has been instructed to study the proposal before presenting its findings to the Cabinet.
Hybrid GST-SST Plan Still In Early Stages
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d11ada6b71d69ab81631de111886796bf46aa72ea8495d6ba75a3418144d95b2" />
Government spokesman Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan has been given time to prepare a report on the proposed model.
The study will consider Malaysia's experience with both GST and SST, including weaknesses in the current system and problems encountered during the previous GST era.
Fahmi said there is currently no confirmed timeline for the study, including whether any changes could be included in Budget 2027.
For now, the move does not represent a return of GST. The government is only studying whether certain GST features could improve the existing SST framework.
What Could A Hybrid GST-SST System Include?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/72dd1d5985ea19cda8e9901436645f1e7e01d3457b74b2a9c15a7acc6be9a94b" />
Anwar has stressed that SST would remain the foundation of Malaysia's tax system.
One option highlighted by tax experts is an Input Tax Credit (ITC) mechanism, which could allow eligible businesses to recover certain taxes paid on their inputs.
Under the current SST system, businesses can sometimes face tax cascading, where taxes become embedded in the cost of goods and services and are effectively taxed again further along the supply chain.
A targeted ITC system could reduce this problem without requiring Malaysia to return to the previous GST model.
Experts have also suggested greater use of digital tax administration and invoice-based reporting to strengthen tax collection and reduce revenue leakages.
Why Not Simply Bring Back GST?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/574e8622aa9ad883597ad55c57c83e580748c38081cf500d606b8a8f00c8b77e" />
Anwar has acknowledged that GST is generally considered an efficient and transparent method of tax collection, but remains concerned about its broad-based nature.
He has said GST would place a wider tax burden on Malaysians, including those already facing cost-of-living pressures.
&ldquo;GST is a broad-based tax that taxes everyone. I do not agree with that.&rdquo;
The government is therefore considering whether selected GST mechanisms can be introduced without creating another broad-based consumption tax.
Malaysia&rsquo;s Previous GST Experience
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4725334439a6321198ecaa67beca1d3fff2177c634ea6b2b2d758a8a1efe440f" />
Malaysia introduced GST in April 2015 at a rate of 6%.
The multi-stage consumption tax faced widespread public criticism, particularly over concerns about its impact on living costs. Businesses also raised concerns over delayed tax refunds, which could affect cash flow.
GST was subsequently suspended and zero-rated in June 2018 before being abolished and replaced by SST in September 2018.
These experiences are expected to form part of the Finance Ministry's assessment as it considers any new tax structure.
Businesses Warn Against Higher Compliance Costs
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/893b81326aee95189298d472f860fcfb91738ef1383321960b33c515e904cd60" />
While tax experts have highlighted the potential benefits of an ITC mechanism, business groups have urged the government to keep any new system simple.
KPMG Malaysia head of tax Soh Lian Seng said a targeted credit mechanism could reduce inefficiencies caused by tax cascading, while digital reporting could improve administration.
However, SME Association of Malaysia president Chin Chee Seong warned that a complicated system could increase business costs, which may ultimately be passed on to consumers.
SAMENTA president Datuk William Ng similarly pointed to delayed ITC refunds during the previous GST era as a major concern.
He said businesses had already invested in systems for GST, SST and e-invoicing, and should not be forced to absorb another round of software, training and compliance costs.
What Could The New Model Look Like?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/94c6fcd5b80a69be43550f9fd686c4c4fcd2b8b7d9a015cc3a6f024b3bfada50" />
Experts have suggested several possible approaches.
One option would be to have GST as a broader consumption tax while retaining SST or other targeted taxes for selected goods and services.
Another could involve a GST-style system with zero-rated or exempt sectors, alongside additional taxes on selected products such as luxury goods, tobacco and other items. Tax expert Harvindar Singh said Malaysia could also study international examples such as India and Canada, where broader consumption taxes operate alongside more targeted taxation.
However, he warned that simply placing GST on top of the existing SST could create unnecessary complexity and further tax-on-tax effects.
Concerns Over Cost Of Living
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6440fe352f04ab2863e50260d8ea8149e87ef661fa5061dec9f3023eefceb8fe" />
Beyond revenue collection, the biggest concern is how any tax reform would affect ordinary Malaysians.
Critics have called for the government to provide clear details on tax rates, which goods and services would be affected, registration thresholds and how input tax credits would work.
There have also been calls for a proper impact study and assessment of compliance costs before any major changes are introduced.
The concern is that higher costs for businesses could eventually be passed on to consumers through higher prices.
Is Malaysia Bringing Back GST?
Not at this stage.
The government has not announced plans to restore the previous 6% GST.
Instead, the Finance Ministry is studying whether selected GST features can be incorporated into the current SST system to make tax collection more efficient while limiting the impact on households.
The eventual outcome could be a modified SST system, a hybrid model or no major change at all.
With Budget 2027 approaching, Malaysia's proposed tax reform is likely to remain closely watched as the government weighs its need for stronger revenue against the pressure of rising living costs.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Anwar Ibrahim says the government wants to build a more efficient tax system without bringing back the previous 6% GST.

91052f4d81a941c20cd03f1128216d05d8478a8a34ce91001dfe4621fb5f56f8

Malaysia Is Exploring A Hybrid GST-SST Tax System: Here’s What It Could Mean

TikTok could be taking its financial services push a step further by allowing users to send money directly through direct messages, potentially turning private chats into another way to make payments.
References to the feature were reportedly discovered in the code of TikTok&rsquo;s US iPhone app. However, TikTok has stressed that the feature is not currently being tested in any market, meaning it remains an early-stage project and may never be released.
How Would TikTok Payments Through DMs Work?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ef1767c296d36836de31ecfde0936a686e0925a0f670d847742ca041e69a06f7" />
According to reports, the proposed feature would allow users to send payments directly inside an existing TikTok conversation.
The recipient could reportedly &ldquo;tap to accept&rdquo; the incoming payment before a set expiry date, while the sender would receive updates on the transaction through push notifications or their TikTok inbox. There also appear to be references to users being able to attach a message or note to a payment, similar to the way users can add captions to transactions on services such as Venmo.
The idea would make sending money feel much like sending a normal TikTok message, potentially removing the need to switch to a separate banking or payment application. For example, users could potentially send money to friends after discussing a purchase, pay someone they met through the platform or transfer money to a creator &mdash; all without leaving TikTok.
TikTok Pay Could Power The Feature
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b4f1eb2e394e4c8354c51f226e3d4b8d89f80a2c8404ddd5281aab8e6de31ce8" />
The reported peer-to-peer payment system could be powered by TikTok Pay, ByteDance&rsquo;s existing payment service.
TikTok Pay is currently available in Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, where it is used for transactions through TikTok Shop. A peer-to-peer payment feature would represent a significant expansion of TikTok Pay, moving it beyond payments to merchants and towards direct transfers between individual users.
ByteDance has already explored similar ideas in China. Its Chinese platform, Douyin, has supported peer-to-peer payments through Douyin Pay, allowing users to make purchases, pay during livestream shopping and send tips.
TikTok Is Moving Further Into Financial Services
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b7cf42b36c5f639b21ec516dee5766cb20f4434451b3c1c0333330bd900f5f8f" />
The reported feature fits into TikTok parent company ByteDance&rsquo;s wider push into financial technology and social commerce.
TikTok is no longer simply a platform for short-form videos. Users can already shop through TikTok Shop, purchase digital coins, send virtual gifts to creators and interact with businesses directly through the app. A direct payment system could allow TikTok to keep even more of those transactions within its own ecosystem.
According to Sensor Tower data cited in reports, consumers worldwide have spent more than US$2.9 billion (around RM12.3 billion) on TikTok so far this year. The platform has also reportedly remained the world's leading app for in-app purchase revenue since 2022.
With such a large amount of spending already taking place on TikTok, adding peer-to-peer payments could provide another way for the company to connect its social, entertainment and commerce services.
Could TikTok Challenge Venmo And Other Payment Apps?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/37b6c11608191448f0b7bd8ec5f443d2aa2694ca76e6b28dd5fdfa0c1c1a5b96" />
A built-in payment feature could put TikTok into more direct competition with established services such as Venmo and Zelle in the US.
However, TikTok would have one major advantage: it already has a huge audience. Instead of convincing users to download another financial app, TikTok could place payment functionality directly into an application they already use to communicate, watch content and shop.
This could be particularly useful for creators and sellers. Users already share payment details such as Venmo or Cash App usernames through TikTok profiles, so an integrated system could potentially eliminate the need to move transactions elsewhere.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1727d7a4a4cd4635abb9c250e3aafc82d55192e39af891dd9eec446a4b87a48e" />
Other social platforms are heading in a similar direction. X has been expanding its X Money service, while Facebook Messenger has offered peer-to-peer payments in the US for years.
The bigger trend appears to be social media companies attempting to evolve into &ldquo;everything apps&rdquo;, where users can communicate, shop and manage financial transactions in one place.
But There Are Privacy And Scam Concerns
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/898c09abb7bec5e58afbefee7c2eec752ed63c36d4d61b493a76f2df9e5625c5" />
Making payments as easy as sending a message could certainly be convenient, but it could also create new challenges.
A payment request appearing inside a familiar conversation could potentially make scams and fraudulent transactions harder for users to spot. Criminals could use hacked accounts, fake profiles or convincing messages to pressure people into sending money.
There are also concerns about younger users. TikTok has a huge teenage and young adult audience, and making payments almost frictionless could potentially encourage impulsive spending or make financial scams easier to execute.
TikTok's existing financial tools have also faced legal scrutiny in the US, with some lawsuits involving allegations related to financial and child exploitation, money transmission laws and money laundering. These cases concern existing features and should not be treated as evidence of problems with a peer-to-peer payment system that does not yet exist.
No Launch Date Has Been Confirmed
For now, TikTok's reported peer-to-peer payment feature should be viewed as a development project rather than an upcoming confirmed feature.
The discovery of code shows that ByteDance is exploring the possibility, but TikTok has said it is not currently being tested in any market.
There are also no confirmed details on potential transaction limits, fees, eligibility requirements, banking partners or whether the feature would launch in Malaysia, the US or other markets.
Still, the idea highlights how TikTok is evolving beyond social media and into commerce and financial services.
For Malaysian users, the more immediate takeaway is that TikTok Pay already exists locally through TikTok Shop. Whether Malaysians will eventually be able to send money to friends simply by opening a TikTok DM, however, remains to be seen.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Your TikTok DMs could become payment channels — but at what privacy cost? 

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