In short: To incorporate a Malaysian private limited company (Sdn Bhd), you need at least one shareholder, at least one director who ordinarily resides in Malaysia, a registered office in Malaysia and a qualified company secretary appointed within 30 days of incorporation. Foreign shareholding may be permitted: the Companies Act 2016 does not itself impose equity conditions, and MIDA’s manufacturing policy has allowed 100% foreign equity in new, expansion or diversification projects since June 2003, but a sector licence can still impose local or Bumiputera equity conditions. SSM’s fee to incorporate a company limited by shares is RM1,000 (name reservation, if done separately, is RM50). Paul Hype Page & Co (Malaysia) prepares and lodges the SSM application, acts as company secretary and coordinates bank-account, licensing and Employment Pass steps. Timelines and approvals depend on SSM and other authorities.
How Paul Hype Page helps foreign firms incorporate in Malaysia
In short: Paul Hype Page & Co (Malaysia) is an accounting firm and a corporate service provider (CSP). We incorporate Malaysian Sdn Bhd companies for foreign founders and then handle the implementation work that follows: company secretarial support, government licences including the Wholesale and Retail Trade (WRT) licence where it applies, corporate bank account opening, hiring and premises search, and Employment Pass applications for overseas expatriates and their families. We are a multi-jurisdiction CSP with offices in Asia, and we can assist across Asia, including Japan, China and Australia. We are not a Malaysian audit firm and not a licensed tax agent.
- Incorporate the Sdn Bhd with SSM and act as company secretary.
- Apply for government licences, including the Wholesale and Retail Trade (WRT) licence where the company carries on wholesale, retail and trade.
- Coordinate opening a corporate bank account.
- Help you plan for official ESD paid-up capital requirements, including the RM1,000,000 threshold that applies to foreign-owned WRT companies. This is not a waiver or circumvention of the requirement, and Employment Pass approval is not guaranteed.
- Help with implementation after incorporation, including hiring, searching for an office or factory, and Employment Pass and Dependant Pass applications so expatriates and their families can relocate.
Leverage our proven expertise in Malaysia company incorporation. We specialise in helping foreign entrepreneurs and investors register Sdn Bhd companies through a streamlined, compliant, and fully guided process.
Whether you’re expanding into Southeast Asia or launching a new venture, our team supports you at every step — from choosing the right entity and preparing SSM documents to securing licenses, opening a corporate bank account, and managing post-incorporation compliance.
As your local incorporation partner, we help prepare and lodge the SSM application and coordinate post-incorporation filings. SSM decides whether and when a company is registered, and bank, licence or Employment Pass outcomes remain subject to the relevant authorities.
Malaysia Sdn Bhd Registration: Foreign Founder Checklist
Key requirements: A Malaysian private company generally needs at least one director ordinarily resident in Malaysia, a registered office in Malaysia and one or more shareholders. Foreign shareholding may be permitted: the Companies Act 2016 does not itself impose equity conditions, and MIDA’s manufacturing policy has allowed 100% foreign equity in new, expansion or diversification projects since June 2003, but a sector licence can still impose local or Bumiputera equity conditions. Check the current rules with the relevant regulator and MIDA’s equity policy before you incorporate. SSM requires the first qualified company secretary to be appointed within 30 days of incorporation.
Before registering: Confirm the business activity, proposed name, shareholders and beneficial owners, share capital, resident director arrangement, registered-office details and relevant licensing requirements. If foreign directors or staff plan to work in Malaysia, assess the separate Employment Pass requirements. Paul Hype Page & Co. can help review the proposed structure, SSM documents and ongoing corporate secretarial obligations. See SSM’s official incorporation guidance.
Official SSM fees (checked 7 Nov 2026)
These are government fees payable to the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). They are separate from Paul Hype Page & Co. professional fees and may change; please confirm on the SSM Table of Fees.
- Name reservation (optional): RM50 for every 30 days, up to 180 days
- Incorporation of a company limited by shares: RM1,000
- Annual return (private company): RM150 per year
- Lodgement of financial statements (private company): RM50 audited, RM20 non-audited
To start an incorporation enquiry, have ready your proposed company name options, director and shareholder particulars, registered-office details, and any known sector or licensing requirements. We confirm the documents, scope and fees after reviewing your requirements.
Key steps to incorporate a Sdn Bhd
- Check that the business activity is open to foreign shareholders and which licences it needs.
- Reserve a company name in SSM’s Corporate Registry System (CRS) through the SSM4U portal (RM50), or apply for the name and incorporation together. From 14 July 2026, CRS replaced MyCoID for these company filings.
- Lodge the incorporation application in CRS through the SSM4U portal with the director, shareholder and registered-office details (RM1,000).
- Appoint a company secretary registered with SSM within 30 days of incorporation.
- Open a corporate bank account and pay up the share capital.
- Obtain any business licences required for the activity.
- If the company will employ foreign staff, register with the Immigration Department’s Expatriate Services Division (ESD) before applying for an Employment Pass.
Hiring foreign staff: ESD paid-up capital
ESD’s company registration FAQ lists minimum paid-up capital by equity structure, for example RM500,000 for a 100% foreign-owned company and RM1,000,000 for foreign-owned companies in wholesale, retail and trade (WRT). Exemptions and sector rules apply, and meeting the capital threshold does not by itself guarantee pass approval. Source: ESD company registration FAQ, checked 7 Nov 2026.
Need help with company capitalisation? Contact Paul Hype Page to discuss your circumstances and applicable requirements.
Foreign founder FAQs
Do I need a Malaysian-resident director? Yes. A private company needs at least one director who ordinarily resides in Malaysia, with a principal place of residence in Malaysia (SSM incorporation guidelines).
When must the company secretary be appointed? Within 30 days of incorporation. The secretary must be registered with SSM and hold a valid practising certificate.
Does incorporating a company give me the right to work in Malaysia? No. Working in Malaysia requires a separate immigration pass, such as an Employment Pass, applied for after the company registers with ESD.
Are SSM fees included in professional fees? SSM fees are government charges and are listed separately from Paul Hype Page & Co. service fees.
If foreigners can own the company, can we start trading immediately? Not necessarily. Even where foreign shareholding is allowed for a Sdn Bhd, your business activity may still need sector licences or agency approvals before you can operate. Confirm the licences for your activity separately from incorporation.
Why Foreign Entrepreneurs Choose Us for Malaysia Incorporation & Employment Pass Services?
At Paul Hype Page & Co., we don’t just register your Malaysia company — we manage every compliance requirement needed for foreign-owned businesses to operate legally and smoothly. Our expertise covers SSM incorporation, licensing approvals, local director requirements, corporate bank account coordination, and Malaysia Employment Pass (EP) applications.
We help coordinate the documentation and submissions needed for applicable approvals from local councils, federal regulators, and sector-specific agencies. Processing times, licence decisions and immigration approvals depend on the relevant authorities and the facts of each application. Learn more about our Malaysia Employment Pass support where expatriate hiring is part of your business setup.
Unlike firms that only handle basic SSM registration, we provide end-to-end incorporation and immigration support, including company secretarial services, licensing applications, and EP submissions for foreign directors and key personnel.
Our dedicated team guides you at every step — from pre-incorporation planning to post-incorporation compliance — so your business enters Malaysia accurately, efficiently, and ready for operation from day one.
Why is Malaysia the Perfect Destination for Your Business?
Malaysia offers one of Southeast Asia’s most strategic and investor-friendly environments for company incorporation. Its central location, stable economy, and competitive business costs make it an ideal launchpad for foreign entrepreneurs expanding into the region.
In 2023 alone, the country recorded USD 69.5 billion in approved investments and USD 39.7 billion in actual foreign direct investment, showcasing strong global investor confidence in the country’s economic direction.
Malaysia’s workforce is highly educated, English-speaking, and supported by government incentives across high-growth sectors such as:
- Semiconductors
- Data centres
- Renewable energy
- Advanced manufacturing
- Biotechnology
- Logistics & digital economy
The country also offers a streamlined company registration process with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), making it easier and more cost-effective for foreign entrepreneurs to operate and scale their businesses.
Malaysia’s balance of affordability, infrastructure, and regulatory clarity makes it a top choice for international founders entering Asia.
Related Read: Step by Step Guide for Foreigners’ Company Registration in Malaysia
Requirements to Incorporate a Company in Malaysia
Malaysia’s incorporation framework is governed by the Companies Act 2016, providing a straightforward and business-friendly pathway for both local and foreign entrepreneurs. To register a Sendirian Berhad (Sdn Bhd) company with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), you must meet the core requirements below.
1. Approved Company Name & Business Activity
Your proposed company name must be approved by SSM and accurately reflect your intended business activities. An appropriate MSIC business activity code must be selected during incorporation.
2. Minimum One Local Resident Director
At least one director must be a Malaysian resident (citizen or permanent resident with a principal place of residence in Malaysia). Foreign entrepreneurs may serve as directors but must appoint at least one local resident director at the point of incorporation.
3. Minimum One Shareholder
A Malaysian Sdn Bhd requires at least one shareholder. This can be an individual or a corporate entity, and shares may be fully foreign-owned unless the industry is regulated.
4. Minimum Paid-Up Capital of RM1
A Sdn Bhd can be incorporated with RM1 paid-up capital, though higher capital is recommended for industries requiring licensing or for Employment Pass applications.
5. Appointed Company Secretary
You must appoint a company secretary who is a Malaysian citizen or permanent resident ordinarily residing in Malaysia, and who is a member of a prescribed professional body or licensed by SSM (Companies Act 2016, section 235). The secretary must also be registered with SSM and hold a practising certificate before acting (section 241). The secretary is responsible for statutory filings, SSM compliance, and maintaining the company’s legal records.
6. Registered Office in Malaysia
Every Sdn Bhd must maintain a registered office address in Malaysia. This is where statutory registers, notices, and official correspondence are kept. P.O. boxes are not permitted.
These requirements apply to all Malaysia Sdn Bhd companies, whether fully foreign-owned or locally owned. With the correct structure and proper documentation, foreign entrepreneurs can incorporate seamlessly and begin business operations quickly.
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Document Requirements in Malaysia
Incorporating a company in Malaysia is generally more straightforward for Malaysian citizens and permanent residents. Here’s what makes the process easier for locals:
- Simplified Incorporation Process: Fewer documents and faster approvals.
- No Minimum Paid-Up Capital Requirement: You can start your company with any capital amount.
- Sole Proprietorship Option: Locals and permanent residents can register as sole proprietors, though this structure does not offer personal liability protection.
While Malaysia welcomes foreign investment, there are specific requirements and restrictions foreign entrepreneurs should be aware of when incorporating a company.
- Minimum Paid-Up Capital: Often higher for foreigners, depending on business type (e.g., RM1 million for import/export companies).
- Restricted Structures: Foreigners are not allowed to register as sole proprietors.
- Director Requirements: Certain sectors may require at least one Malaysian resident director or citizen.
- More Complex Process: Foreigners must prepare additional documents, and approvals may take longer.
- Work pass requirements: An Employment Pass or other relevant work pass may be needed if you plan to manage operations locally.
Pro Tip:
To ensure a smooth and compliant setup, it’s strongly recommended to engage a corporate law or incorporation firm in Malaysia. Our team offers complete support for foreign company registration, handling compliance, documentation, and visa applications—so you can focus on growing your business.
Our Malaysia Company Incorporation Services
With extensive experience in registering businesses across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Hong Kong, we specialize in incorporating Sdn Bhd companies in Malaysia. Our deep understanding of the incorporation process and proven track record in facilitating successful registrations make us the trusted choice. We can prepare and lodge the incorporation application, but SSM decides whether and when the company is registered. Timelines depend on a complete file and on SSM’s processing, and are not guaranteed.
What is a Sendirian Berhad (Sdn Bhd) Company?
A Sendirian Berhad (Sdn Bhd) is a private limited company incorporated under the Companies Act 2016 of Malaysia. It is the most common and preferred business structure for both local and foreign entrepreneurs due to its credibility, flexibility, and built-in legal protections.
As a separate legal entity, a Sdn Bhd can:
- Own property and assets
- Enter into contracts
- Sue or be sued under its own name
- Limit shareholder liability to the amount of capital invested
Foreign shareholding may be permitted: the Companies Act 2016 does not itself impose equity conditions, and MIDA’s manufacturing policy has allowed 100% foreign equity in new, expansion or diversification projects since June 2003, but a sector licence can still impose local or Bumiputera equity conditions. Check the current rules with the relevant regulator and MIDA’s equity policy before you incorporate. This makes the Sdn Bhd structure highly attractive for international investors looking to establish a compliant and scalable business presence in Malaysia.
A Sdn Bhd is also required for companies applying for licenses, raising capital, or submitting Malaysia Employment Pass (EP) applications for foreign directors and key personnel.
Key Features of a Sendirian Berhad (Sdn Bhd)
How to Register a Company in Malaysia?
Setting up a Sendirian Berhad (Sdn Bhd) in Malaysia is a straightforward process when you understand each step. Below is a simplified and compliant roadmap for foreign entrepreneurs registering a company with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM).
What Is The Timeline to Incorporate in Malaysia?
How long incorporation takes depends on whether the application is complete and on SSM review. Preparing documents, resolving name queries and arranging any required licences, bank account or Employment Pass are separate steps. Factors that can affect the overall timeline include:
A complete, accurate application helps avoid avoidable delay. Official processing is decided by SSM, not by Paul Hype Page, and end-to-end setup is not guaranteed to be completed in one day.
What are the costs to incorporate in Malaysia?
Incorporating a Sendirian Berhad (Sdn Bhd) company in Malaysia includes mandatory fees set by the Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM). SSM charges RM1,000 to incorporate a company limited by shares. If you reserve the name separately first, add RM50 for each 30-day reservation; applying for the name and incorporation together (direct incorporation) costs the RM1,000 incorporation fee*. While SSM fees are fixed, many businesses choose to work with a professional incorporation service provider in Malaysia to simplify the process and ensure full compliance. These services may involve additional charges based on the level of support and post-incorporation services required. *Fees are based on current SSM rates and may be subject to change.
While service packages for company registration in Malaysia can vary depending on the provider and business needs, what sets us apart is our end-to-end expertise and local insight. We handle everything from name approval and document submission to post-incorporation compliance and bank account coordination ensuring your company is set up accurately and efficiently. Our team of experienced professionals eliminates the guesswork, avoids unnecessary delays, and ensures that your business meets all Malaysian regulatory requirements from day one. If you’re a foreign entrepreneur or a local founder looking for a seamless incorporation process, we’re here to guide you—professionally, promptly, and without hassle. Speak to our team today to start your incorporation journey with confidence
Our 2 Decades of Proven Expertise Will Guide Your Business
With over 20 years of experience across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Hong Kong, we’ve successfully incorporated more than 2,000 companies in various jurisdictions.
In Singapore, we also advise on work passes and company regulations. Outcomes are decided by the authorities and are not guaranteed.
As trusted advisors, we use strategic networks and market insights to streamline the Singapore company registration process—helping businesses build a strong foundation in a competitive environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting a new company can be daunting – here are the top questions regarding Malaysia company incorporation that will clear your doubts!
Malaysia Company Incorporation Guides
Supplement your existing knowledge with additional insightful readings that we’ve crafted based on our years of experience.
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Find out which type of business entity is right for you, between Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, SDN BHD, or Berhad.
Clear your confusion on which business structure to choose when incorporating your company in Malaysia.
Understand the process in opening a Corporate Bank Account for both local and foreign businesses.