How to Register a Sdn Bhd Company in Malaysia (2025 Update)
Starting a business in Malaysia? Registering a Sendirian Berhad (Sdn Bhd) company is one of the most common choices for entrepreneurs due to its limited liability, credibility, and scalability. With the latest updates in 2025 and digitalisation via the SSM’s MyCoID system, registering a Sdn Bhd is now more straightforward than ever.
The majority of company registrations in Malaysia are as Sdn Bhd companies. According to a survey in 2019, there were about 4000 Sdn Bhd companies in Malaysia.
The popularity of such companies has greatly increased since the implementation of the Companies Act 2016 because the process has become extremely straightforward and easy to follow.
In this article, you will find important information about Sdn Bhd companies and how to register your company as Sdn Bhd in Malaysia. Let’s start with some basics:
What is a Sdn Bhd Company?
Sendirian (Sdn) Berhad (Bhd) is a private limited company in Malaysia. According to the Companies Act 2016, a Sdn Bhd company should have at least one director and one shareholder.
It is quite different from other types of company registrations in Malaysia that require at least two directors.
Therefore, even if you do not have business partners, you can register a Sdn Bhd company and act as the sole director and shareholder of the company. A Sdn Bhd company can have a maximum number of 50 shareholders.
Eligibility of a Sdn Bhd Company
As discussed, at least one director and shareholder are required to establish a Sdn Bhd company in Malaysia.
The same person can hold both of these positions. You can become a director of a Sdn Bhd company if you fulfil the following requirements:
At least one director who is at least 18 years old and a resident of Malaysia.
At least one shareholder (can be the same person as the director).
A registered office address in Malaysia.
Minimum paid-up capital of RM1 (recommended: RM1,000 or more).
The director must not be bankrupt or convicted of prior offences.
Moreover, before registering your company as Sdn Bhd, you should be familiar with the general roles and responsibilities of directors and shareholders in Malaysia to ensure you will be able to fulfil your responsibilities and make your company a success.
Foreigners can register a Sdn Bhd too, but may need a local resident director depending on the business sector.
Documents Required for Malaysia Company Registration (Sdn Bhd)
When you are registering your business as a Sdn Bhd company in Malaysia, you will have to go through a thorough company registration process.
You will need some important information and documents related to your company. The following is the essential information that you must show in your company registration documents:
Copy of NRIC or passport for directors/shareholders
Proof of residential address (e.g., utility bill, tenancy agreement)
Company name and business nature (MSIC code)
Proposed shareholding structure
Paid-up capital declaration
The cost of registering a Sdn Bhd company in Malaysia is RM1,010 (including tax).
Step-by-Step Sdn Bhd Registration Process (2025)
Step 1: Name Search and Reservation (RM50)
Log in to MyCoID portal
Submit your proposed company name
Approval within 1–2 working days
Step 2: Register MyCoID Account
Create an account
Verify identity at an SSM counter if required
Step 3: Submit Incorporation Application (Superform)
Enter company details, directors/shareholders info
Upload supporting documents
Appoint company secretary
Step 4: Pay Incorporation Fees
Standard SSM fee: RM1,010
Other fees may apply (name reservation, secretary service)
Step 5: Receive Certificate of Incorporation (Section 17)
Issued within 3–7 working days upon approval
Timeline to Incorporate a Company
| Task | Duration |
|---|---|
|
Name reservation |
1–2 working days |
|
Document preparation |
2–5 days |
|
Application review |
3–7 working days |
|
Certificate issuance |
1–2 days |
|
Total estimated time |
2–4 weeks |
Post-Incorporation Requirements
Once incorporated, you must:
Appoint a Company Secretary within 30 days
Open a corporate bank account
Register for income tax, SST (if applicable), and EPF/SOCSO
Maintain proper accounting records
File annual returns and financial statements
Can Foreigners Register a Sdn Bhd?
Yes, 100% foreign ownership is allowed in most sectors. However:
Some industries require local equity participation
A local nominee director may be needed
Certain licences (e.g., wholesale, retail) must be obtained post-registration
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing a company name that’s too similar to existing ones
Not appointing a licensed company secretary on time
Missing annual compliance deadlines
Not separating personal and business finances
Get Expert Help from ShineWing TY Teoh
Setting up a company is the first step—compliance, tax planning, and financial management follow closely. At ShineWing TY Teoh, we provide end-to-end support:
Company registration & secretary service
Corporate tax & accounting setup
Business advisory for foreign investors
In a Nutshell
By following the steps above, you can easily register your company as Sdn Bhd in Malaysia.
If you are facing issues in preparing the required documents or need professional help, you can rely on the services provided by accounting firms in Malaysia that also include company registration.
Generally, the process is not difficult, and it takes 1-2 business days in which you will receive the Notice of Registration upon the approval from SSM.
For more information, feel free to get in touch with us.
Book a Free Consultation
Want to register your Sdn Bhd with peace of mind? Contact us now for a free consultation and let our professionals handle the paperwork while you focus on growing your business.
FAQs
For foreigners, most businesses require at least one resident director.
Legally yes, but banks and investors usually prefer at least RM1,000.
With complete documents, the whole process can take 1–2 weeks.
Yes, via the SSM’s MyCoID system.
