Setting up Malaysia Private Limited Company (Sdn Bhd)

Malaysia Sdn Bhd, also known as a private limited company, is the most common form of business entity in Malaysia. It is a legal structure that provides its shareholders with limited liability protection, separating their personal assets from the company’s. This makes it an attractive option for entrepreneurs and investors who want to start a business in Malaysia. We will cover everything from the definition of a Malaysia Sdn Bhd to the legal requirements and additional considerations for setting up a successful business entity in Malaysia. 

Definition of Malaysia Sdn Bhd 

A Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a private limited company that is registered under the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). It is a separate legal entity that has its own assets, liabilities, and legal personality. This means that shareholders have limited liability protection and their personal assets are separated from the company’s. 

Importance of setting up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd company 

Setting up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd company can have many benefits, including limited liability protection, tax benefits, and increased credibility. It can also help entrepreneurs to establish a professional image and expand their business operations in Malaysia

Benefits of setting up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd  

A. Limited Liability Protection  

One of the main benefits of setting up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd is limited liability protection. Shareholders are only liable for the amount of their share capital, and their personal assets are protected from the company’s debts and obligations. 

A Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a separate legal entity from its shareholders. This means that it can enter into contracts, own assets, and sue or be sued in its own name. This provides greater protection and flexibility for the business. 

C. Tax Benefits 

Malaysia offers several tax incentives for companies, including lower tax rates for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), tax exemptions for certain types of income, and investment tax allowances.  

D. Professional Image  

Setting up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd can help entrepreneurs to establish a professional image and increase their credibility with customers, suppliers, and investors.  

E. Increased Credibility   

Having a Malaysia Sdn Bhd can also help businesses to build trust and credibility with customers and partners. It shows that the business is committed to operating legally and professionally, which can lead to increased opportunities and growth. 

Steps to set up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd 

A. Reserve the company name 

The first step in setting up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd is to reserve the company name with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). 

B. Register the company with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) 

Once the company name has been approved, the next step is to register the company with the SSM. This involves submitting the necessary documents and paying the registration fee. 

C. Obtain necessary licenses and permits  

Depending on the nature of the business, it may be necessary to obtain additional licenses and permits from the relevant authorities, such as the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Trade and Industry, or the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). 

D. Open a bank account   

Once the company has been registered, it is important to open a bank account in the company’s name. This will be used for all financial transactions related to the business.  

E. Register for tax  

The final step is to register the company for tax with the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRB). This includes registering for the Sales and Services Tax (SST), if applicable.  

A. Minimum Share Capital Requirement   

A Malaysia Sdn Bhd is required to have a minimum share capital of RM1. This can be increased at any time by the shareholders. 

B. Appointment of Company Officers  

A Malaysia Sdn Bhd is required to have at least one director and one shareholder. The director is responsible for managing the company’s affairs, while the shareholder owns a portion of the company’s shares. 

A Malaysia Sdn Bhd is required to have at least one Company Secretary. Company Secretary is to assist your Company (Sdn. Bhd.), acting as the official liaison party for your company to communicate, preparation and submission of Statutory Returns with the Companies Commission of Malaysia in compliance with Statutory Requirements under Malaysia’s Companies Act, 2016.

C. Registered Office Address 

A Malaysia Sdn Bhd is required to have a registered office address in Malaysia where all official correspondence can be sent. This address must be included in the company’s registration documents. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, setting up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd can be a lucrative opportunity for foreign investors looking to establish a business in Malaysia. The process is relatively straightforward, and there are many benefits to incorporating a company in Malaysia, including limited liability protection, separate legal entity, tax incentives, and a professional image. However, it is important to follow the legal requirements and regulations set forth by the Companies Commission of Malaysia to ensure a smooth and successful registration process. By partnering with a professional service provider, foreign investors can navigate the process of setting up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd with ease and start reaping the benefits of doing business in Malaysia. 

FAQs

Q1: Do I need to be a Malaysian citizen to set up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd?

A: No, foreign individuals and companies can set up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

Q2: Can I set up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd without visiting Malaysia?

A: Yes, it is possible to set up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd without visiting Malaysia. However, you will need to appoint a local resident director.

Q3: What are the tax benefits of setting up a Malaysia Sdn Bhd?

A: A Malaysia Sdn Bhd can enjoy various tax incentives and benefits, including reduced corporate tax rates, tax exemptions on certain income, and tax deductions for certain expenses.