Launching a business and venture in Malaysia is an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs and founders. With a strong economy, business friendly government support, and a growing digital and SME ecosystem, Malaysia offers an ideal environment for startups, small businesses, and corporations to thrive.
Whether you are launching a tech startup, retail business, or consultancy firm, incorporating a Private Limited Company (Sendirian Berhad/Sdn Bhd) is the best structure to establish a legally recognised business with limited liability protection.
At Amaze Advisory, we specialise in Company Incorporation, Company Secretarial, Accounting and Financial Advisory, Tax & Advisory, Payroll Outsourcing, Employer of Record (EOR) and Immigration & Global Mobility for entrepreneurs and founders. Our goal is for us to take care of the legal complexities so you can focus on growing your business.
Why Incorporate a Business in Malaysia?
- Limited Liability Protection:
A Private Limited Company (Sendirian Berhad/Sdn Bhd) protects your personal assets from business liabilities. - Enhanced Credibility:
Private Limited Companies gain more trust from clients, investors, government agencies and financial institutions. - Access to Wider Pool of Funding:
Incorporated a Private Limited Company can apply for government grants, bank loans, and investor funding. - Attractive Tax Benefits and Business Friendly Tax Regime:
Lower corporate tax rates and various incentives for SMEs and startups. - Scalability & Growth:
A structured business entity allows for expansion, partnerships, and equity investments.
Step-by-Step Guide to Incorporating a Company in Malaysia
1. Choose the Right Business Structure
Before setting up your business, it’s important to choose the suitable legal structure:
- Sole Proprietorship
Owned by one person, not a separate legal entity, and personal liability applies. - Conventional Partnership
Shared ownership, but partners are personally liable. - Private Limited Company (Sendirian Berhad/Sdn Bhd)
A separate legal entity with limited liability protection (Recommended). - LLP (Limited Liability Partnership)
A hybrid between a partnership and Sdn Bhd, ideal for professional firms and venture investment firms.
Which business structure suits you best? Amaze Advisory can help you decide based on your business goals.
2. Meet the Legal Requirement for Incorporation
To register a Private Limited Company (Sdn Bhd) in Malaysia, you must fulfill the following:
- Minimum one director who is at least 18 years old and ordinarily resident in Malaysia.
- At least one shareholder (can be an individual or corporate entity).
- A registered business address in Malaysia.
- A company secretary (must be appointed within 30 days after incorporation).
Need a professional company secretary? Amaze Advisory provides secretarial services to ensure full compliance.
3. Register Your Company with SSM
Company registration must be done via the MyCOID system under SSM (Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia). The process includes:
- Step 1: Name Reservation
Choose and register a unique business name. - Step 2: Prepare Incorporation Documents
Including the company registration form, director/shareholder details, business address and resolution from corporate shareholder. - Step 3: Submit Registration Application
It will take 2 to 5 working days to obtain approval. - Step 4: Receive Certificate of Incorporation
Once approved, SSM issues the Certificate of Incorporation (Section 17).
Amaze Advisory handles all documentation and submissions, ensuring a hassle-free incorporation process!
4. Obtain Business Licenses & Permits
Certain businesses require additional licenses to operate legally, such as:
- General Business License:
Required for retail, F&B, and trading businesses and usually are from the local council where your business is operating. - Professional License:
Required for legal, medical, accounting, and financial firms. - Import/Export License:
For businesses involved in international trade.
Unsure about licensing requirements? Amaze Advisory helps with all business licensing and regulatory approvals!
5. Open a Corporate Bank Account
A business bank account is essential for company transactions. Most banks require:
- SSM Incorporation Documents (Certificate of Incorporation, Company constitution).
- Board Resolution to open a corporate account
- Directors’ and Shareholder identification documents.
Amaze Advisory assists in choosing the best corporate banking partner for your business needs.
6. Register for Taxes & Compliance
All companies in Malaysia must register for:
- Corporate Tax (15%/17%/24%) – Standard rate for companies.
- Sales & Service Tax (SST) – Applies to taxable goods and services.
- Employees Provident Fund (EPF) & (SOCSO) – Mandatory for businesses hiring employees.
Need help with tax registration and compliance? Our professionals at Amaze Advisory ensure you stay fully compliant with tax laws.
7. Hire Employees & Comply with Employment Laws
If your plan to hire employees, you must comply with:
- Employment Act 1955 – Covers employee rights and benefits.
- EPF (Employees Provident Fund) – Employer contribution required.
- SOCSO (Social Security Organization) – Protection for employees in case of workplace accidents.
Amaze Advisory provides payroll services and HR solutions to help you manage employees efficiently.
Common Challenges & How Amaze Advisory Can Help
| Challenge | Solution by Amaze Advisory |
|---|---|
| Complex incorporation process | We handle end-to-end company registration |
| Understanding business licenses | We guide you through all required permits |
| Banking & financial setup | We assist in corporate bank account opening |
| Tax registration & compliance | Our tax experts ensure full statutory compliance |
Conclusion
Incorporating a company in Malaysia as a Malaysian entrepreneur is a straightforward process when you follow the correct steps. Choosing a Sdn Bhd allows for business scalability, limited liability protection, and credibility in the market.
At Amaze Advisory, we provide complete business setup solutions, including:
- Company Incorporation, Company Secretary and Nominee Services
- Accounting & Financial Advisory
- Tax & Advisory
- Payroll Outsourcing
- Employer of Record (EOR)
- Immigration & Global Mobility
Get Started with Amaze Advisory Today!
Phone: +6013-284 7678 / +6013-323 7678
Website: www.amazeadvisory.com
