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  • clients(at)lawofficemalaysia.com
  • +6011 366 10304

How to Open a Company in Malaysia

Foreign entrepreneurs can start a company in Malaysia right away, with assistance from our local specialists. This article highlights the key company formation services we offer in Malaysia and details the process. Explore this page and then contact us for support.

Quick Facts
Types of company formation services we provide in Malaysia– drafting company documents,
– assistance in company registration,
– support in obtaining a business license,
– tax registration services in Malaysia, etc.
Is 100% foreign ownership allowed in Malaysia? Are there any restrictions?100% foreign ownership is allowed in most business sectors in Malaysia.
Company registration authority in MalaysiaCompanies Commission in Malaysia (SSM)
Types of entities available in Malaysia– private & public limited liability company,
– sole proprietorship,
– partnership, etc.
What is the most popular business structure in Malaysia? The private limited liability company or Sdn Bhd in Malaysia
Minimum shareholders to open an LLC in MalaysiaAt least 1
Minimum share capital for an LLC in MalaysiaRM 1
Solicited documents for company formation in Malaysia– proof of registered business address in Malaysia,
– Articles of Association,
– business name confirmation,
– proof of paid capital and administrative fees,
– IDs/passports of shareholders & directors.
Do you assist in opening a bank account in Malaysia?Yes, for corporate and personal use.
Can foreigners buy shelf companies in Malaysia? Sure, we can put our clients in contact with local providers in Malaysia.
Do you offer company secretary in Malaysia?Yes
Do you provide a registered business address in Malaysia?Sure, as part of our company formation services in Malaysia.
Time frame to start a company in Malaysia 4-8 weeks
Foreign extensions available in Malaysia– branches,
– subsidiaries,
– liaison offices
Additional services through our firm in Malaysia– trademark registration,
– accounting,
– assistance in opening foundations, etc.
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Are there any restrictions on foreigners doing business in Malaysia?

No! People of any nationality can do business in Malaysia.

Is 100% ownership allowed in Malaysia?

Yes.

What are the main types of company formation services you provide in Malaysia?

  • Company incorporation with the relevant authorities,
  • Support in opening a corporate bank account,
  • Tax registration,
  • Trademark registration,
  • Support in getting a business license,
  • Corporate secretary services,
  • Employment-related services,
  • Accounting, etc.

Here is an infographic about the reasons to open a company in Malaysia:

opening a company in Malaysia

What types of companies/entities are available in Malaysia?

  • Private and public limited liability company – Sdn. Bhd.
  • Joint stock company,
  • Sole proprietorship,
  • General & limited partnership,
  • Limited liability partnership – Perkongsian Liabiliti Terhad or PLT,
  • Company limited by Guarantee – CLG,
  • Branch,
  • Subsidiary, etc.

What is the most popular business structure in Malaysia, and what are the steps to open one?

The limited liability company is the most popular business structure, especially the private one. The incorporation consists of the following steps:

  • RM 1 million as minimum share capital, or RM 1 in the case of minority foreign ownership with beneficial ownership,
  • applying for a Wholesale and Retail Trading License (WTC),
  • obtaining a work permit in Malaysia,
  • appointing a resident director and company secretary,
  • ensuring a business address in Malaysia,
  • opening a bank account,
  • draft the Articles & Memorandum of Association, etc.

IMPORTANT! The company formation in Malaysia starts with:

  • name verification & approval,
  • identity check,
  • preparation of documents and submission to the SSM in Malaysia, which is the Companies Commission.

Can I hire foreign personnel for my company in Malaysia?

Absolutely!

Can I get assistance in opening a branch in Malaysia? What about a subsidiary?

Yes, you may explore in-depth info here and here.

Are shelf companies available in Malaysia?

Yes, we can put you in contact with the local providers of ready-made companies in Malaysia.

Do you provide support in opening a holding company in Malaysia?

Yes, you may explore information here.

Do you offer virtual office packages? What are the services included?

Please check here for details about virtual office packages in Malaysia.

Can I receive assistance in establishing a foundation in Malaysia?

Of course! Please explore our article here.

What are the costs for company formation services in Malaysia?

  • from RM 3,500 for company incorporation,
  • around RM 110 as a company secretary fee/month,
  • around RM 65/month for a registered office address in Malaysia,
  • around Rm 1,500 for opening a bank account in Malaysia,
  • around RM 1,200/month for a nominee director,
  • about RM 300 for document translation/submission, etc.

NOTE: These fees do not include 10% out-of-pocket expenses. Plus, payroll services start at RM 450 for a basic package. We offer complete accounting services in Malaysia.

What is the time frame to open a company in Malaysia?

Around 5-7 days approx.

We invite you to find out more about the company formation services we offer in Malaysia. Contact us today to receive a free case evaluation from our local specialists.