Essential Guide to Business Incorporation in Malaysia

Looking to Expand Your Business in Malaysia?

Malaysia stands as a strategic hub for trade and maritime logistics in Southeast Asia, offering an ideal gateway for international businesses. Its prime geographical location, well-developed infrastructure, skilled workforce and investor-friendly tax incentives and policies make it a top destination for companies looking to expand their regional presence.

As a key player in Southeast Asia’s supply chain, Malaysia offers key advantages and these benefits have made it a preferred launchpad for regional expansion, especially global enterprises, including Chinese businesses.

At Crowe Malaysia, we are committed to guide you through the complexities of market entry and ensuring a smooth, successful expansion into the region.

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Where to Begin?

Let Crowe Malaysia be your trusted partner in navigating company registration, licensing and regulatory compliance in Malaysia.

Malaysia offers vast opportunities for foreign investors looking to establish a presence. However, certain industries require specific approvals or licenses from regulatory authorities before operations can begin. Whether your company can commence business activities depends on the sector and nature of your business.

Partner with us to simplify your market entry and unlock new growth opportunities in Malaysia’s dynamic economy.

Procedures for Registering a Company in Malaysia

Steps	Registration Phase	Description	Estimated Time
1	Pre- Registration Consultation	Crowe Malaysia will conduct a free consultation with your team to understand your proposed investment, business model, and the company’s needs in Malaysia. We will explain the company registration procedures, applicable tax incentives (if any), and compliance requirements.	One (1) hour
2	Proposed Company Name	You are required to provide two (2) proposed company names for a name search and approval with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). All private limited companies in Malaysia must end with "Sendirian Berhad (i.e. Sdn. Bhd.)".	Approximately two (2) to three (3) working days (Step 2 to 4 can be carried out concurrently)
3	Determine Shareholders, Appoint Directors, and Company Secretary	Prepare a list of shareholders (corporate or individual), share allocations, and directors. At least one (1) director must be a local (Malaysian citizen, permanent resident or foreigner with work visa), eighteen (18) years or older and free of bankruptcy or criminal records.	-
4	Registered Capital	Initial paid-up capital must be at least MYR 1 (can be increased later after bank account setup).	-
5	Signing of Incorporation Documents	Once the company name is approved by SSM, we will prepare the incorporation documents for signing by your representatives and proposed directors.	Five (5) working days
6	Signing & Certification of Documents	Your company arranges signing and local notarisation of the documents.	Depends on signing, certification, and courier arrangements
7	Submit Signed Documents	Once we have received the signed documents, we will submit them to SSM for approval.	Based on experience, SSM takes about five (5) to seven (7) working days
8	Company Successfully Registered	Once registered, SSM will issue the Section 14 Company Details Form (includes company name, number, shareholders, directors, secretary), and the Section 17 Certificate of Incorporation. We will provide copies for your records.	-

Next Steps After Establishing Your Company

Bank Account Opening
We can assist your Company by liaising with your preferred bank and submitting the necessary company documents to open a basic or foreign-owned corporate bank account.
Determine Business/Office Location
The company can choose an office location based on its operational requirements. In the early stages, co-working spaces may also be a cost-effective option to reduce startup costs.
Apply for Required Business Licenses
Different industries in Malaysia are subject to different licensing requirements. Common types of licenses include business licenses, manufacturing licenses, product-specific approvals, wholesale and retail licenses, etc.
Apply for Work Permits
Work permits issued by the Malaysian government
allow foreign professionals and individuals to engage in work or business activities in Malaysia for a specific period. The validity of a work permit typically ranges from one (1) to two (2) years, depending on factors such as salary, job position, educational background and other eligibility criteria.
Recruit Required Employees
Malaysia is widely recognised as a multicultural and multilingual nation. As a result, many locals are proficient in multiple languages, including Mandarin, English, Malay and various dialects. Businesses can recruit talent based on specific needs through online recruitment platforms and engage qualified professionals across a range of industries.