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.
SSM's guideline for local companies sets out this flow:
- Check name availability and either reserve the name or use "direct incorporation", which combines name approval and incorporation in one online application.
- Prepare the particulars required by s.14: proposed name, private status, business activity, registered office address, business address, and details of directors and members (promoters).
- Declarations: each director or promoter declares they are not an undischarged bankrupt and have no relevant convictions; a declaration of compliance is also made.
- Lodge online and pay the RM1,000 incorporation fee (for a company limited by shares).
- SSM verifies and, if satisfied, issues a notice of approval and registration. A certificate of incorporation is issued on request with a fee.
- After incorporation: appoint the company secretary within 30 days, and optionally adopt and lodge a constitution.
- Obtain any sector licences before you start trading.
Open the company bank account and set up tax and payroll registrations after you have the registration notice. Keep your registers and records from day one.
Legal basis
- Companies Act 2016, s.14
- Companies Act 2016, s.236(2)
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 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.
- How long does it take to incorporate a Sdn Bhd in Malaysia?SSM does not guarantee a fixed time. Once a complete application and name approval are in place, approval can come within a few working days, but busy periods and queries from SSM can stretch it. Preparing documents and getting everyone's details and signatures often takes longer than SSM's processing.