Documents Required to Register a Company in Malaysia

Registering a company in Malaysia (typically a Sdn Bhd / Sendirian Berhad) is a structured process governed by the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). The good news: the documentation is straightforward if you prepare correctly.

1. Identification Documents (Directors & Shareholders)

You’ll need valid ID for all individuals involved:

  • Malaysians: MyKad (NRIC)
  • Foreigners: Passport (certified true copy)
  • Residential address details

👉 Minimum requirement:

  • At least 1 director residing in Malaysia

2. Proposed Company Name

  • Must be unique and approved by SSM
  • Should not be similar to existing businesses
  • Must comply with naming guidelines (no prohibited words)

💡 Tip: Prepare 2–3 backup names in case your first choice is rejected.

3. Nature of Business (Business Activities)

  • Describe what your company will do
  • Use standard business codes (MSIC Code)

Example:

  • “IT consultancy services”
  • “Trading of electronic products”

4. Registered Office Address

  • A local Malaysian address is mandatory
  • This is where official documents are sent

📌 Usually provided by your company secretary if you don’t have an office yet.

5. Shareholding Structure

Details required:

  • Number of shareholders
  • Percentage of shares
  • Paid-up capital (can start from RM1)

6. Directors’ Consent Forms

  • Written consent from each director to act in the role
  • Declaration they are not disqualified under the law

7. Company Constitution (Optional)

  • Not mandatory under current law
  • Replaces the old Memorandum & Articles of Association

👉 Recommended if:

  • You have multiple shareholders
  • You want clear governance rules

8. Declaration of Compliance

  • Submitted by your company secretary
  • Confirms all legal requirements under the Companies Act 2016 are met

9. Company Secretary Appointment

  • Must appoint a licensed company secretary within 30 days
  • In practice, most businesses appoint one during incorporation

🧾 Summary Checklist

✔ ID (MyKad / Passport)
✔ Company name proposal
✔ Business activity description
✔ Registered office address
✔ Shareholding details
✔ Directors’ consent
✔ (Optional) Constitution
✔ Compliance declaration

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Choosing a name too similar to existing companies
  • Incorrect or vague business activity description
  • Not planning shareholding properly (can cause disputes later)
  • Trying to DIY without understanding compliance requirements

💡 Pro Tip for Entrepreneurs

While the process looks simple, the structure you choose at the start (shareholding, roles, constitution) can impact:

This is why many SMEs work with professionals instead of just filing documents blindly.

🚀 Need Help Registering Your Company?

If you want a smooth, compliant, and strategic setup:

👉 Get expert support for:

  • Company registration (Sdn Bhd)
  • Company secretary services
  • Tax & compliance structuring

Contact us today to get started and avoid costly mistakes.