How do I notify SSM when shareholders change in a Sdn Bhd?
Update the register of members and notify SSM within 14 days of any change of shareholder, including when someone becomes or stops being a shareholder. Share transfers also need stamping, and beneficial ownership information may need updating. Late notice is an offence.
Rule. Companies Act 2016, s.51(1): the company must notify the Registrar of changes in the register of members within fourteen days from the date of:
- a change of any shareholder in the register;
- a person ceasing to be, or becoming, a shareholder; or
- the company receiving or recording information required under s.56 (disclosure of beneficial interest by members).
What triggers it
- A transfer of shares to a new owner.
- A new allotment (which also needs a separate return of allotment within 14 days, s.78).
- Death of a shareholder and transmission of shares.
Steps
- Complete the transfer or allotment documents and have the board approve where required.
- Enter the change in the register of members.
- Lodge the notice with SSM within 14 days.
- If the change affects who ultimately owns or controls the company, update the beneficial ownership register and lodge within 14 days (s.60B).
- Stamp the share transfer instrument with LHDN.
Offences under the notice rules apply to the company and its officers, so give the secretary signed documents the same day.
Legal basis
- Companies Act 2016, s.51
- Companies Act 2016, s.78
- Companies Act 2016, s.60B
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 is the deadline to lodge beneficial ownership information with SSM?Changes to the beneficial owner register must be lodged with SSM through e-BOS within 14 days of being recorded (s.60B(3) and (4)). SSM gave companies until 30 September 2024 to lodge their first information without the 14-day limit or late charges. That window has closed, and lodging carries no SSM fee.
- When is the annual return due for a Sdn Bhd in Malaysia?A company must lodge its annual return with SSM within 30 days from the anniversary of its incorporation date, every calendar year. It does not apply in the calendar year the company is incorporated. The return is signed by a director or secretary.
- When must a private company lodge its financial statements with SSM?A private company must circulate its financial statements to members within six months of its financial year end, then lodge them with SSM within 30 days of circulation. Late lodgement is an offence with a fine of up to RM50,000 plus daily fines. Whether an audit is needed is a separate question.
- How do I change directors of a Sdn Bhd and what is the deadline?Pass a board or members' resolution, get the new director's written consent, update your register, and notify SSM within 14 days of the appointment or resignation. Late notice is an offence. A director cannot resign if that would leave the company below its minimum or without a resident director.
- How do I change my company's registered office address and what is the deadline?Notify SSM of the new registered office address within 14 days of the change. The new address must be in Malaysia and open to the public during ordinary business hours. Failing to notify is an offence with a fine of up to RM50,000. Also update your registers and tax and licence records.