What documents do I need to register a Sdn Bhd?
You mainly need the particulars, not many paper documents: the proposed name, business activity, registered office address, and each director's and shareholder's identity details, plus declarations that directors are not bankrupt or convicted. Corporate shareholders need a consent letter; some activities need a regulator's letter.
SSM's incorporation guideline lists what the online application must contain (Companies Act 2016, s.14(3)):
For the company
- Proposed name and status (private or public).
- Nature of business.
- Registered office address and business address.
For each director and shareholder (promoter)
- Full name, identification (NRIC or passport), nationality and residential address.
- Directors' declaration that they are not an undischarged bankrupt (in or outside Malaysia) and have not been convicted of relevant offences.
- Foreign individuals: passport details and an address; at least one director must live in Malaysia.
Additional documents where relevant
- A consent letter from a corporate body that is to be a member.
- A certificate of director qualification, if required.
- A consent letter from another agency if your activity needs one.
- A declaration of compliance by the person responsible for the incorporation.
A constitution is optional and may be lodged after incorporation. Prepare the company secretary's details too, since one must be appointed within 30 days.
Legal basis
- Companies Act 2016, s.14(3)
- Companies Act 2016, s.198
Sources
Applies to 2026 · Last reviewed 29 October 2026
General information for business owners, not legal, tax or professional advice. Rules change, so check the sources or ask a licensed professional before you act.
Related questions
- What business structure should I choose in Malaysia: sole proprietorship, partnership, LLP or Sdn Bhd?Pick based on liability, who owns it and how credible you need to look. A sole proprietorship or partnership is cheapest but the owners are personally liable; an LLP or a Sdn Bhd gives a separate legal entity. A Sdn Bhd is the usual choice once you hire staff, sign larger contracts or bring in investors.
- What is the difference between a sole proprietorship and a Sdn Bhd in Malaysia?A sole proprietorship is not a separate legal person, so you are personally liable for all business debts. A Sdn Bhd is its own legal person and shareholders are generally liable only for unpaid share capital. A Sdn Bhd costs more to set up and carries more yearly filing duties.
- What is an LLP in Malaysia and how is it different from a Sdn Bhd?A limited liability partnership (LLP) is a body corporate registered under the LLP Act 2012. It needs at least two partners (a shortfall is allowed for six months) and a compliance officer who is a Malaysian citizen or permanent resident living in Malaysia. It runs on a partnership agreement, not a board. A Sdn Bhd has directors, shares and heavier governance under the Companies Act 2016.
- How do I register a Sdn Bhd with SSM step by step?Search and apply for a company name, then lodge the incorporation application online with SSM through its e-services (MyCoID), with director and shareholder details, registered office and business activity. Pay the RM1,000 fee, then appoint a licensed company secretary within 30 days of incorporation.
- How much does it cost to incorporate a Sdn Bhd in Malaysia (SSM fees)?SSM's own fee is RM1,000 to incorporate a company limited by shares, plus RM50 for each 30-day name reservation (unless you use direct incorporation). Your total will also include the company secretary and any professional fees, which are not set by SSM.