All businesses registered in Malaysia are required to go through the Companies Commission of Malaysia, which is the statutory body formed under an Act of Parliament that regulates the corporate bodies and business affairs in Malaysia. The Companies Commission of Malaysia is known locally by the Malay variation of its name, which is Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia, hence the commonly known SSM.
The SSM Registration Process in Malaysia
A business in Malaysia may be registered with the SSM by either using a personal name or a trade name, depending on the preference of the individual who is registering the said business. If the individual is registering a business using a personal name (for example, their own name that is registered on their identity card) they do not need to submit an application for a business name.
For individuals who intend to register the business using a trade name, the proposed name of the business must get prior approval from the Registrar of Business. Once the name has been approved, the next steps of the SSM registration process would be as follows:
- Individuals would need to complete Business Registration Form A with details of the business name, commencement date of the business, principal place of the business, the address of the business branch if any, information of the owners and partners, the type of business carried out and provide a copy of the Partnership Agreement if any.
- If there is more than one business owner involved, every owner and partner is required to sign the completed form.
- The application form must be submitted over the counter or through the online SSM e-Lodgement services in the SSM’s website.
- Documents that must be submitted along with the forms include a photocopy of the individual’s identity card, permits, license or supporting letters for the type of business, approval of the supporting letter from the relevant agency if required by the Registrar of Business.
What Are the Requirements for SSM Registration in Malaysia?
To be able to successfully register a business in Malaysia, individuals would need to meet the following requirements:
- To register with the SSM requires that the individual be a Malaysian citizen or a permanent resident of Malaysia.
- The individual must be 18 years of age and above.
- Registration of the business must not be later than 30 days from the date of the business commencement.
- The nature of the business must not contravene any laws or be likely to be used for unlawful purposes.
New business registrations in Malaysia is valid for a period of one year and does not exceed five years on each registration. Individuals needs to keep in mind that despite being registered with the SSM, licences, permits or approval letters from other relevant authorities that are needed for the business must be obtain by the individual on their own. More information on Guide to Malaysia Company Registration.