Register a Company in Malaysia
Registering a company in Malaysia can be complex, especially for international entrepreneurs unfamiliar with the local regulations. With Block3 Finance leading the way, you can focus on scaling your business while we handle the registration process efficiently and professionally.
Our goal is to make the company formation process smooth and timely, enabling you to launch your business in Malaysia with ease.
Our service package includes
Malaysia company registration with the Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM)
Appointment of a Malaysia resident director (nominee, if necessary)
Company secretary and a registered office address
Corporate bank account opening assistance
Application for licenses (if required)
Annual accounting and tax services
Why Do You Need a Malaysia Resident Director?
Under the Malaysia Companies Act 2016, a company registered in Malaysia must have at least one local resident director. Block3 Finance provides a reliable nominee director service to ensure compliance with this legal requirement.
We will handle the preparation of the necessary legal documents and nominee director agreements to confirm that our nominee director will have no control over the operations of your business. If you're interested in being appointed as the local resident director, Block3 Finance can assist you with securing a work permit to facilitate this process.
How Long Does It Take to Register a Company in Malaysia?
Step 1: Once we receive your due diligence documents, our team will begin by reserving your preferred company name.
Step 2: After the name is secured, we will submit your application to SSM for company registration. The approval process typically takes 7 days after all necessary documentation is submitted.
Step 3: Our legal team will prepare the necessary incorporation forms, including the Constitution (replacing the Memorandum and Articles of Association under the new Companies Act).
Step 4: Once your company is registered, you will receive all official documents, including the certificate of incorporation and a register of directors and shareholders.
Step 5: Within 4 weeks of registration, we will assist you in opening a corporate bank account with a reputable Malaysian bank, such as CIMB, RHB, or Maybank.
Overall, you can expect to begin operations in Malaysia within 5 weeks of engaging Block3 Finance.
Types of Companies in Malaysia
There are several business structures to choose from when registering a company in Malaysia. Based on your business goals and activities, Block3 Finance will help you choose the most suitable structure.
Sendirian Berhad (Sdn Bhd): This is the most common and popular business entity for foreign investors in Malaysia. It’s equivalent to a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in other countries.
Minimum 1 shareholder (of any nationality)
1 resident director in Malaysia
A company secretary
No minimum paid-up capital
This structure ensures that the shareholders are protected from personal liability for company debts.
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): LLP is a hybrid business structure that offers the benefits of limited liability with the flexibility of a partnership. It’s ideal for professionals such as accountants, lawyers, and service providers.
Branch Office: Foreign companies wishing to expand into Malaysia can set up a branch office. A branch office is an extension of the parent company, and the parent company remains fully responsible for the branch’s debts and liabilities.
100% foreign ownership
Only for companies with a similar business activity to the parent company
Subject to withholding taxes and other local tax obligations
Representative Office: This structure is suitable for foreign companies that wish to explore the Malaysian market. Representative offices are limited to market research and promotional activities; they cannot generate revenue or sign contracts.
How to Register a Company in Malaysia?
The process to register a company in Malaysia involves the following steps:
1. Choose the right business structure: We will evaluate your business model and suggest the best entity type.
3. Name reservation: Check the availability of your desired company name through the SSM online system.
4. Submit your application and documents to SSM: Once approved, we will send you the Certificate of Incorporation and all necessary documents.
5. Open a corporate bank account: We assist you with opening an account with a reputable local bank.
6. Post-registration requirements: We assist you with applying for any business licenses and registering your company for tax purposes.
7. Stay compliant: We provide ongoing accounting, tax services, and compliance support to ensure your business remains up to date with Malaysian regulations.
Accounting and Tax Obligations
Corporate Income Tax: The corporate tax rate in Malaysia is 24% of chargeable income, with preferential tax treatment for SMEs.
Tax Residency: Companies are considered tax residents if their management and control are conducted in Malaysia.
Withholding Tax: There is a 15% withholding tax on interest payments to non-residents, and 10% on royalties.
Real Property Gains Tax (RPGT): If you sell real property in Malaysia, RPGT applies depending on the duration of ownership.
Sales and Service Tax (SST): Companies dealing in taxable goods or services are required to register for SST.
Bookkeeping: Malaysian companies must maintain accurate records, and financial statements must be submitted annually.
Annual Returns: Companies are required to file their annual returns with SSM within 30 days of the anniversary of incorporation.
Advantages of Registering a Company in Malaysia
Business-friendly environment: Malaysia offers a stable, growing economy with significant opportunities for foreign investment.
Strategic location: Malaysia’s proximity to ASEAN markets provides easy access to key regional markets.
Tax incentives: Competitive tax rates, with a 3% tax rate for qualifying Labuan companies.
Skilled labor force: Malaysia offers a diverse, educated workforce, providing businesses with skilled employees.
Find Out More!
Block3 Finance is here to help you navigate the company registration process in Malaysia, ensuring that your business starts off on the right foot.
For more information on registering your company in Malaysia, contact Block3 Finance today! Our team of experts will get back to you within 24 hours.
