Starting a business in Malaysia can be exciting, but before you begin operations, you must secure a valid business license Malaysia. Without it, your company could face legal issues, penalties, or even closure.
This article breaks down the step-by-step process of applying for a business license in Malaysia — from preparing your documents to final approval.
🟦 Step 1: Register Your Company with SSM
Before applying for any business license, your company must be registered with the Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM).
Once registered, you’ll receive a business registration certificate, which serves as proof of your company’s legal existence.
You’ll need this certificate for almost all license applications in Malaysia.
🟦 Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Every local council (DBKL, MBPJ, MBJB, etc.) has slightly different requirements, but in general, you’ll need:
- 📄 SSM registration documents
- 📍 Business premise address and tenancy agreement
- 🧱 Floor plan or layout of your business
- 🔥 Fire safety certificate (if applicable, especially for restaurants or factories)
- 📷 Photos of the premise exterior and interior
Having these ready ensures your business license Malaysia application moves smoothly.
🟦 Step 3: Submit Application to Local Council
After preparing your documents, submit your application to the local authority governing your area.
For example:
- DBKL for Kuala Lumpur
- MBPJ for Petaling Jaya
- MBJB for Johor Bahru
Each council will review your application to ensure your business activities match zoning rules and safety requirements.
If you find the process confusing, consider engaging a license runner Malaysia like Camp Management who can assist in preparing, submitting, and following up on your application efficiently.
🟦 Step 4: Premise Inspection
Before final approval, the council or related departments (such as Bomba) may inspect your premises.
They check for:
- Fire safety compliance
- Proper waste management
- General cleanliness and layout suitability
If your business passes inspection, you’ll move to the final approval stage.
🟦 Step 5: License Approval and Collection
Once approved, you’ll receive your business license Malaysia certificate, which must be displayed prominently at your business location.
Depending on the local council, approvals can take 2 to 6 weeks.
After that, remember to renew your license annually to stay compliant.
🟦 Bonus Tip: Combine with Other Licenses
Some businesses require multiple permits, such as:
- Signboard license
- Factory license Malaysia (for manufacturing)
You can apply for these simultaneously to save time and avoid re-inspections.
Learn more about factory license applications on our Factory License Malaysia page.
🟦 Final Thoughts
Applying for a business license Malaysia can seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation, the process is straightforward.
To avoid costly mistakes and delays, let Camp Management handle the submission and follow-up for you — ensuring a faster, stress-free approval process.