A complete guide to company registration in Malaysia: the golden springboard to low-cost entry into Southeast Asia! Minimum paid up of RM1!
Published: 2026-01-26

As Southeast Asia becomes a popular destination for Chinese companies going overseas, a trend is becoming clearer:MalaysiaIt is surpassing traditional choices such as Singapore and Vietnam at an alarming rate, and has become the "new favorite" of Chinese enterprises in Southeast Asia. Data shows that in the first half of 2025, the number of Chinese companies registered in Malaysia surged by more than 40% year-on-year. what kind of golden business opportunities does this country, which is at the heart of the Strait of Malacca, harbor? How can Chinese enterprises complete company registration efficiently and in compliance with the law, and smoothly set foot on this hot investment land?

In this article, we will combine the latest policies and practical experience to provide you with a detailed explanation of the Malaysian company registrationA guide to the full process, core benefits and key pitfalls to avoidThe first step in the process is to help you get to the bottom of the pile.

Hi ~ I am the customer service of Enterprise Finance Group! We provide domestic (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.) company registration, overseas (Hong Kong, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, etc.) company registration, Hong Kong identity application and renewal services, while covering the cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, such as the whole chain of corporate services. Contact me at any time if you have the need.Tel: 16620947137, WeChat: Qicaiyingjituan (can be added by direct search) or scan the QR code below to add!

I. Why Malaysia? Seven Core Advantages Analysis

Malaysia is not only the geographical center of Southeast Asia, but also a business hub. Choosing this place means you will capitalize on the following unparalleled advantages:

  1. strategic location: Connecting China, India and Middle East market, sitting on the golden shipping channel of the Strait of Malacca. It takes only 5 days from Penang to Guangzhou by sea, and the logistics cost is 15%-20% lower than that of Thailand and Vietnam, which can easily radiate the ASEAN market of over 600 million people.
  2. Highly open foreign investment policy: Foreign investment is permitted in the majority of sectors such as manufacturing, IT, logistics, etc.100% HoldingsIn addition, there is no need to compulsorily search for local partners. Key industries such as new energy and high technology can even enjoy tax exemptions for 5-10 years.
  3. Significant Chinese AdvantageChinese people account for about 23%, Chinese language is widely used, and business habits are similar to those in China, which greatly reduces the risk of communication and cultural conflict.
  4. Very competitive tax system::
    • Small and Medium Enterprises (annual turnover < RM600,000) CIT rates as low as17%The
    • realizeterritoriality principleThe tax is levied only on profits arising in the territory of Malaysia, and no tax is levied on offshore income.
    • Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAs) have been signed with more than 70 countries around the world, and profit sharing is tax-free, effectively enhancing profit retention.
  5. Mature infrastructure: The level of infrastructure such as electricity, network and port is leading in Southeast Asia, and Kuala Lumpur and Penang are well supported by industries.
  6. Extremely low registration threshold: Minimum registered capital1 RinggitNo capital verification is required. Only 1 shareholder and 1 director are needed to register, and the process is convenient.
  7. Extensive free trade networks: As a member of heavyweight agreements such as RCEP and CPTPP, it has FTAs with over 120 economies and enjoys preferential tariffs, making it an excellent springboard into the global market.

Hi ~ I am the customer service of Enterprise Finance Group! We provide domestic (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.) company registration, overseas (Hong Kong, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, etc.) company registration, Hong Kong identity application and renewal services, while covering the cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, such as the whole chain of corporate services. Contact me at any time if you have the need.Tel: 16620947137, WeChat: Qicaiyingjituan (can be added by direct search) or scan the QR code below to add!

Second, Malaysia company registration type: how to choose the most suitable for you?

The main forms of companies in Malaysia include:

  • Sdn Bhd::Best suited for most foreign companiesThe
    • have limited liability (e.g. for gasoline and diesel fuel): Separation of shareholders' personal assets from the company and controlled risk.
    • Foreign investors may 1001 TP3T holdings: In non-restricted industries, wholly foreign-owned ownership is allowed.
    • request: At least 1 local resident director (Malaysian national or long term visa holder) and 1 licensed company secretary are required.
  • Public Limited (Berhad): For large corporations planning to go public or raise shares from the public.
  • Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): Combining the advantages of corporation and partnership, the partners have limited liability and enjoy the advantage of tax penetration, which is suitable for consulting, legal and other professional service organizations.
  • Sole proprietorships/general partnerships: Simple to set up, but owners are subject to unlimited liability and higher risk.

For Chinese companies going overseas seeking steady growth, theSdn Bhd is the most mainstream and recommended optionThe

Hi ~ I am the customer service of Enterprise Finance Group! We provide domestic (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.) company registration, overseas (Hong Kong, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, etc.) company registration, Hong Kong identity application and renewal services, while covering the cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, such as the whole chain of corporate services. Contact me at any time if you have the need.Tel: 16620947137, WeChat: Qicaiyingjituan (can be added by direct search) or scan the QR code below to add!

Third, the whole process of registration of Malaysian companies in detail (2025 latest)

Basic conditions of registration:

  • Shareholders: at least 1 (may be a foreign natural person or a corporation).
  • Directors: at least 1Permanent Director(Malaysian citizens, permanent residents or expatriates with valid long term passes).
  • Company Secretary: A licensed Malaysian company secretary must be appointed.
  • Registered Capital: Minimum 1 Ringgit, recommended 2-10 million Ringgit to enhance the company's creditworthiness and to facilitate bank account opening.

Core materials required:

  1. Develop a company name (provide 2-3 alternatives).
  2. Scanned copies of valid passports and address proofs of shareholders and directors.
  3. If the shareholder is a corporation, the parent company's business license and registration documents are required.
  4. Determine the scope of the company's business (usually no more than 3 items).
  5. Registered address (may use a compliant address provided by the secretarial firm).

Register for the five-step process:

  1. Name search and authorization: Application submitted to the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM).
  2. Preparation and submission of documents: Draft the articles of association and submit them to SSM together with information on the directors and shareholders.
  3. Official Review and Approval: Certificate of Incorporation (Section 17) is issued after SSM audit and approval.
  4. Key follow-up registrations::
    • tax registration: Register with the Inland Revenue Department (LHDN) to obtain a tax number.
    • Social security registration: Enrollment of employees with the Provident Fund Board (EPF) and the Social Security Organization (SOCSO).
  5. Opening of company bank accounts: Open an account with a local bank in Malaysia with a full set of registration documents.

Registration Cycle: When the information is complete, it is usually5-10 working daysRegistration can be completed.

Hi ~ I am the customer service of Enterprise Finance Group! We provide domestic (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.) company registration, overseas (Hong Kong, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, etc.) company registration, Hong Kong identity application and renewal services, while covering the cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, such as the whole chain of corporate services. Contact me at any time if you have the need.Tel: 16620947137, WeChat: Qicaiyingjituan (can be added by direct search) or scan the QR code below to add!

IV. Frequently Asked Questions and Professional Advice (FAQ)

Q: Do I have to have a local director?
A: Yes. The law requires at least one resident director. If you are unable to provide one, a compliant one is available through a professional services organizationNomination of DirectorsService Resolution.

Q: Does the registered capital need to be paid up?
A: Contributions are not normally required. However, banks will assess the company's capital when opening an account, and it is recommended that the registered capital should not be less than RM100,000 to enhance the success rate of opening an account and the credibility of the company.

Q: What are the requirements for a registered address?
A: It must be a local address in Malaysia, which can be done by using a professional secretarial firm's attached address, which is legal and common.

Q: How can I ensure that my company is subsequently compliant and avoid risks?
A: Upon incorporation of a company, annual returns, audit of accounts (if necessary) and tax returns must be filed. It is advisable to engage a professional team of accountants and secretarial services to maintain and ensure compliance with the Malaysian Companies Act and tax law requirements.

Hi ~ I am the customer service of Enterprise Finance Group! We provide domestic (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.) company registration, overseas (Hong Kong, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, etc.) company registration, Hong Kong identity application and renewal services, while covering the cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, such as the whole chain of corporate services. Contact me at any time if you have the need.Tel: 16620947137, WeChat: Qicaiyingjituan (can be added by direct search) or scan the QR code below to add!

V. Core values in selecting professional representative services

In the face of cross-border legal, language and policy differences, choosing a professional service organization like "China Boundary Overseas" can bring you:

  • efficient and time-saving: Familiarize yourself with the SSM process to avoid repetitive materials and shorten the enrollment cycle 30%-50%.
  • Ensuring Compliance: Accurately grasp the policies on foreign investment access and industry restrictions to avoid legal risks.
  • one-stop solution: Provide full support from local director, company secretary, bank account opening to the later stage of bookkeeping and tax filing, visa application.
  • Cost transparency: No hidden charges to help companies focus on core business expansion.

concluding remarks
Malaysia, with its unique comprehensive advantages, is becoming an indispensable bridgehead for Chinese enterprises to go overseas to Southeast Asia. Despite the low threshold of company registration, professional guidance is still needed when it comes to foreign investment compliance and localized operations.

If you are planning to explore the Malaysian market, or have any questions about registration details and tax planning, please feel free to contact us to provide you with one-stop overseas solutions from company registration to post maintenance, and to help your brand set sail in Southeast Asia and travel steadily to the future.

Hi ~ I am the customer service of Enterprise Finance Group! We provide domestic (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.) company registration, overseas (Hong Kong, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, etc.) company registration, Hong Kong identity application and renewal services, while covering the cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, such as the whole chain of corporate services. Contact me at any time if you have the need.Tel: 16620947137, WeChat: Qicaiyingjituan (can be added by direct search) or scan the QR code below to add!

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  • The process of registering a Malaysian company
  • Register Malaysia Company