KUALA LUMPUR, Dec. 14 -- DAP adviser Lim Guan Eng has called on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to immediately release tens of billions of ringgit in excess tax refunds allegedly withheld by the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), warning that continued delays are deepening a cash squeeze faced by Malaysian businesses and eroding confidence in the unity government.

In a statement today, Lim said there was "no moral, ethical or legal right" for government agencies to retain excess taxes paid by companies, arguing that swift refunds - coupled with stronger support for local producers - would provide the fastest relief to struggling firms, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

"There is no moral, ethical or legal right for gov...