Type of Business License in Malaysia to Apply for After Incorporating Your Company

In Malaysia, the regulatory landscape for businesses is diverse and multifaceted, with various industries subject to different sets of rules, regulations, and licensing requirements. Upon incorporating your company, you may apply for various business licenses. The process of obtaining any type of business license in Malaysia typically comes after the initial company registration.  

Beyond foundational licenses and registrations, we will take a deeper look into sector, industry, and activity-specific licenses required to establish your business. 

Sector and Industry-Specific Licenses 

In Malaysia, various sectors and industries have specific licensing requirements to ensure regulatory compliance and maintain industry standards. Here are examples of sector and industry-specific licenses that you are required to apply for: 

Healthcare Industry 

Medical Practitioner License: Required for doctors and medical professionals. 

Pharmacy License: For businesses involved in pharmaceuticals and dispensing medications. 

Private Clinic License: Necessary for operating private healthcare clinics. 

Finance and Banking Industry 

Banking License: For institutions offering banking services. 

Insurance License: Required for insurance companies and agents. 

Securities Commission License: For companies dealing with securities and investments. 

Food and Beverage Industry 

Halal Certification: For businesses selling halal food and products. 

Liquor License: Necessary for establishments serving alcohol. 

Tourism and Hospitality Industry 

Tourism License: For travel agencies, tour operators, and tourist accommodations. 

Hotel License: Required for operating hotels and lodging establishments. 

Transportation and Logistics Industry  

Land Public Transport License: Needed for companies providing public transportation services. 

Freight Forwarding License: For businesses engaged in international freight forwarding. 

Construction and Real Estate Industry   

Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) License: Required for construction-related businesses. 

Real Estate Agency License: For property agencies and agents. 

Entertainment and Leisure Industry   

Entertainment License: Necessary for businesses offering entertainment, such as clubs and karaoke lounges. 

Gaming License: For casinos and gaming establishments.

Telecommunications and Technology Industry  

Communications License: Required for telecommunications and broadcasting services. 

Internet Service Provider (ISP) License: For companies providing internet services. 

Manufacturing and Industrial Industry  

Manufacturing License: Issued by MIDA for manufacturing activities. 

Petroleum License: For businesses dealing with petroleum products. 

Environmental and Energy Industry  

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Approval: Required for projects with potential environmental impacts. 

Renewable Energy License: For businesses involved in renewable energy generation. 

Educational Institutions

Private Higher Educational Institution License: Needed for private universities and colleges. 

Tuition Center License: Required for private tuition centers. 

Agriculture and Plantation Industry

Plantation License: For businesses involved in agricultural plantations. 

*Please note that certain requirements may vary based on business specifics and location. Staying updated with regulations and seeking professional advice ensures proper compliance when establishing your business in Malaysia. The information is based on the time of writing. 

Activity-Specific Licenses   

Activity-specific licenses in Malaysia pertain to business activities or functions, ensuring that these activities are conducted in compliance with relevant regulations and standards. Here are examples of activity-specific licenses:

Food Handling and Hygiene License

Ensures businesses involved in food preparation and service adhere to health and safety standards. 

Trade License 

Required for specific trades like hawking, mobile vending, and selling alcohol. 

Advertising License 

For businesses engaged in outdoor advertising or signage.

Petroleum and Explosives License

For businesses dealing with petroleum products or explosive materials. 

Employment Agency License 

Needed for companies involved in labor recruitment and placement. 

Money Services Business License

For businesses offering financial services like money changing or remittance.

Waste Management License 

Ensures proper disposal and management of waste materials. 

Tourist Guide License

Required for individuals offering guided tours to tourists.

Pawnbroker License

For businesses engaged in pawnbroking and lending against collateral.

Mining License 

For businesses involved in mineral exploration and extraction. 

Medical Device Establishment License 

Required for businesses dealing with medical devices. 

Childcare Center License 

For establishments providing childcare and preschool services. 

Massage Establishment License

Needed for businesses offering massage and spa services. 

Education and Training Center License 

Required for institutions offering educational and vocational training. 

Private Security Company License 

For companies providing private security and guard services. 

Estate Agency License 

Needed for businesses engaged in real estate agency services. 

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Approval 

Ensures that development projects adhere to environmental regulations. 

Event Management License  

Required for organizing events and gatherings. 

Lottery and Betting License

For businesses engaged in lotteries, betting, and gaming.

Transport Operator License 

Needed for companies providing public transportation services. 

*Please note that certain requirements may vary based on business specifics and location. Staying updated with regulations and seeking professional advice ensures proper compliance when establishing your business in Malaysia. The information is based on the time of writing. 

Business License Processing Time 

The processing time for business licenses can vary from hours to months, depending on the type of business license in Malaysia, the complexity of the application, the regulatory agency involved, and other factors. Generally, simply put, simpler licenses might be processed relatively quickly, while licenses that involve more scrutiny or multiple agencies, including local authorities and state authorities, could take longer. We suggest checking with local authorities to get a better idea of how long the process might take in its entirety. 

Applying for and Renewing Business Licenses 

Incorporate: Register your company with SSM to get your Business Registration Certificate. 

Define Activities: Determine your business activities that will dictate the required licenses. 

Research: Understand the licenses needed by checking official sources and consulting experts. 

Prepare Documents: Gather the necessary documents for license applications. 

Apply: Submit applications to relevant government agencies. 

Meet Criteria: Fulfill additional requirements like training or inspections. 

Approval: Wait for agencies to review and approve your applications. 

Obtain Licenses: If approved, you’ll receive licenses to display. 

Renew: Keep track of renewal dates for ongoing compliance. 

Check Date: Know your license’s expiration date. 

Review Requirements: Check renewal specifics and needed updates. 

Apply for Renewal: Submit your renewal application online or in person. 

Pay Fees: Settle renewal fees based on license type. 

Update Info: If changes occur, update the business details. 

Complete Assessments: Some licenses need assessments. 

Wait and Receive: Await approval and get a renewed license copy. 

How We Can Help 

Navigating the world of business licenses in Malaysia can be complex, given the diverse range of industries and activities. If you have questions about specific license requirements, application procedures, or need assistance with any aspect of setting up your business, our team is here to help.  

Whether you’re seeking clarity on regulatory compliance or looking for expert advice to ensure a smooth licensing process, we’re just a message away. Contact us today to get personalized guidance tailored to your business needs. 

Remember, staying informed and prepared is key to ensuring your business operates within legal frameworks and thrives in the dynamic Malaysian business landscape. 

Reach out to us today for expert assistance and support. 

How We Can Help