Types of Business Licenses in Malaysia
As you have decided to start your first company or new business legally, you must get a business license. Business licenses are administered by various government agencies, statutory bodies and local authorities. There are more than 300 types of business licenses in Malaysia. Do not frown just yet. We will help you to identify the one that best fits your business.
3 Key Business License Categories:
General Licenses
This license is a must-have for all who wish to start a business in Malaysia. Below is the list of general licenses that might be suitable for any business:
- Company Registration
- Employees Provident Fund (EPF)
- Social Security Organisation (PERKESO)
- Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF)
- Company and Employees Income Tax Registration
- Business Premise Licenses and Signboard Licenses (The requirements might vary in every local authority)
Sector / Industry-Specific Licenses
Sector / industry-specific licenses, unsurprisingly, are exclusively applicable to certain sectors or industries that are specified by the government. You might need to take note that there are distinct sets of policies or rules and guidelines or policies that govern particular industries / sectors.
Examples:
- Manufacturing Sector
Website: Official Website MIDA
*Click MIDA e-Services for online services
- Distributive Trade
Website: Official Portal of Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP)
*Click here for other licensing management services
- Telecommunication Sector
Website: Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s Official Portal (MCMC)
- Construction Sector
Website: Official Website of CIDB
- Banking Sector
Website: Official Website of Bank Negara
- Broadcasting Sector
Website: Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s Official Portal (MCMC)
*Do refer to MalaysiaBiz to check which Government Department or Authority you should go to for assistance.
Activity-Specific Licenses
Activity-Specific Licenses are used to regulate certain activities and might be applicable to one or more sectors or industries. There are specific guidelines for investors to follow in order to protect the interest of citizens, employment, the safety of workers, the environment, and the public.
Examples:
- Certificate of Fitness for Certified Machinery
- Approval for Expatriate Posts
- Approval to install/resite/alter Air Pollution Control Equipment (bag filter and chimney)
- Building Plan Approval
- Sales Tax License
To understand the other types of licenses better, click on MalaysiaBiz Portal. Shall you need further info, they are available on SMEinfo Portal. You can also buzz CORPSO for hands-on guidance on getting the most befitting business license for your new company.
