If you would like to buy a shelf company in Malaysia, this article is for you! Please explore the main characteristics of this entity and then contact our local specialists for details about the purchase process.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Legal entities available for shelf company | Limited liability company |
Time required for purchasing the company | A few days |
Types of features it includes (corporate bank account, VAT number, etc) | – tax number, – trading name, – legal address |
| The advantages of a shelf company | – fast purchase & ownership transfer, – easy access to bank loans, – fast start of the activities, – no debts |
| Appointing new directors | Yes |
| Capital increase allowed | Yes |
| Certificate of no commercial activities | No |
| Modify the objects of activity | Yes |
| Participants in the purchase procedure | Buyer (or representative) & seller |
| The cost of buying a shelf company | Depending on longevity of the shelf company & purchase fees |
| A shelf company is also known as | Ready-made company, vintage company |
Registration procedure | Not applicable |
Changing the company name | Available option after purchase |
| Can foreigners buy a ready-made company in Malaysia? (YES/NO) | YES |
| Documents solicited for shelf company purchase | ID/passport, signatures of new directors, board resolution |
| Bank account (YES/NO) | NO |
| Status of a shelf company in Malaysia before purchase | Inactive |
| Minimum number of shareholders | 2 shareholders required |
| Authorised capital | RM 100,000 |
| Cost of a shelf company in Malaysia | Starting at RM 2,500 |
| Purchase fee | Our Malaysian agents can inform you on fee charges involved. |
| Available for purchase | Right away |
| Notification after buying a shelf company in Malaysia | With the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), helped by our local agents |
| Sectors of interest in Malaysia | – trading, – construction, – manufacturing, – retail, – services, – financial, etc. |
| Are there any risks in buying a shelf company in Malaysia? (YES/NO) | NO |
Table of Contents
How is a shelf company known in Malaysia?
Ready-made company, vintage company, or ready off-shelf company in Malaysia.
What is the purpose of a shelf company in Malaysia?
To start the activities fast without passing through the incorporation process of a company from scratch.
What is the optimal legal entity for a ready-made company in Malaysia?
The limited liability company, also known as Sendirian Berhad (Sdn Bhd) in Malaysia.
What are the key features of a shelf company in Malaysia?
- it is already registered with the local authorities,
- it has a registered business address,
- it has a tax ID and a bank account in Malaysia,
- it has a clean history,
- can be used as soon as the ownership transfer is concluded.
We present you with an infographic with extra details on this topic:
How can I buy a ready-made company in Malaysia in 2026?
Assisted by our Malaysian agents, who can offer information about the existing ready-made companies.
How is the ownership transfer of a vintage company done in Malaysia?
Quite fast! We will solicit your ID/passport and provide you with the documentation for you to sign.
Does a shelf company in Malaysia have debts?
No!
What are the fees involved in buying a ready-made company in Malaysia in 2026?
Our specialists in company formation in Malaysia can provide you with such information. Ask for a free case evaluation here and get your answers.
Who is involved in the process of buying a shelf company in Malaysia?
The shelf company provider and the client, who can be represented by our Malaysian agents, during the ownership transfer.
Can I change the company name after buying a shelf company in Malaysia? What about the activities?
Yes, both the company name and activity can be modified.
Can I appoint new directors after purchasing a vintage company in Malaysia?
Absolutely.
Is a business license required for a shelf company in Malaysia?
Yes, according to the future operations you want to develop in Malaysia.
Is a certificate of “No Commercial Activities” required for a shelf company in Malaysia?
It is not required. However, a Certificate of Non-Trading can be prepared & presented.
You can also watch a video presentation about shelf companies in Malaysia:
Is the notary involved in purchasing a ready-made company in Malaysia?
Yes, to seal the ownership transfer.
Do I need to travel to Malaysia to buy a vintage company?
No.
Is it risky to purchase a ready-made company in Malaysia?
Absolutely not!
Is company due diligence needed when buying a ready-made company in Malaysia?
In most cases, it is recommended to ensure the shelf company has a clean history, no debts, etc.
Is a shelf company in Malaysia the same thing as a liaison office?
No. A shelf company can start economic activities, while a liaison office can only carry out advertising strategies.
Can I ask for a bank loan after buying a shelf company in Malaysia?
Yes.
What is the time frame to purchase a ready-made company in Malaysia?
About 24-48 hours.
What are the benefits of a shelf company in Malaysia?
- fast ownership transfer & purchase,
- no history behind,
- presents credibility in front of banks,
- can raise capital,
- can have new directors,
- ready to start the activities as soon as the ownership transfer is concluded.
In addition to support for buying a shelf company in Malaysia in 2026, our agents can offer you other services. For example, you can opt for our accountants in Malaysia. Our CPA in Malaysia will be at your disposal, with complete services and information. If you have any other questions about purchasing a shelf company or opening a company in Malaysia, please don’t hesitate to contact us.