Starting a Business in Malaysia: Costs, Registration & Compliance Insights for Foreigners and Locals

Malaysia continues to attract entrepreneurs from all over the world due to its strategic location, competitive costs, and pro-business environment. Whether you're a local looking to upgrade your business structure or a foreign investor planning to tap into Southeast Asia, understanding the company setup landscape is essential. From comparing Sdn Bhd vs. Enterprise, to navigating digital tax systems like e-Invoice Malaysia, starting a business in Malaysia comes with its fair share of important decisions.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the essentials: startup costs, foreign ownership options, company structures, and why having the best company secretary in Malaysia matters more than ever.

Understanding the SDN BHD Cost in Malaysia

One of the first considerations when setting up a company is cost. A Sendirian Berhad (Sdn Bhd) is the most common private limited company structure in Malaysia, favored for its legal protection and scalability.

But what does it actually cost to establish and run a Sdn Bhd?

According to consistantinfo.com.my, the Sdn Bhd cost in Malaysia typically includes:

• SSM incorporation fees
• Company secretary retainer fees
• Annual filing fees
• Audit and tax compliance costs
• Optional business licenses, if required

While the setup fee is relatively affordable, many first-time entrepreneurs overlook the ongoing compliance costs. That’s why working with an experienced advisor from the start can help you avoid penalties and plan better for your operational budget.

How to Register a Company for Foreigners in Malaysia

Malaysia is one of the most foreign-friendly countries in Asia when it comes to setting up businesses. Foreigners are allowed to own up to 100% of a company in many industries — but there are rules and restrictions that vary by sector.

To register a company for foreigners in Malaysia, you typically need:

• At least one local director (Malaysian citizen or PR)
• A registered business address in Malaysia
• A company secretary (licensed by SSM)
• RM1 paid-up capital (minimum; higher for certain industries)

Consistant Info offers full guidance to ensure you meet local compliance rules while maximizing your ownership rights. From incorporation to licensing and immigration matters, their team handles the paperwork so you can focus on business development.

The process is relatively fast — a company can be incorporated in as little as 1-3 working days once documents are in order.

Choosing Between SDN BHD vs Enterprise in Malaysia

If you’re a local entrepreneur or freelancer, you may wonder whether it’s better to start with a sole proprietorship (Enterprise) or go straight into incorporating a Sdn Bhd.

The decision between Sdn vs Enterprise depends on several factors:

Criteria

Sdn Bhd

Enterprise

Legal Entity

Separate from owners

Not separate

Liability

Limited (owners not personally liable)

Unlimited (owners fully liable)

Tax Rate

17% to 24% (tiered corporate tax)

Individual income tax rates

Image & Branding

More professional & credible

Often viewed as small-scale

Compliance

Higher (audit, filings)

Lower compliance burden

Ownership Flexibility

Can have shareholders & investors

Owned by a single individual

While Enterprises are simpler and cheaper to start, a Sdn Bhd offers greater legal protection and opens doors to funding and government tenders. For growing businesses, a Sdn Bhd is the better long-term strategy.

Why You Need the Best Company Secretary in Malaysia

Incorporating a company is just the beginning. To remain compliant with Malaysian laws, you must appoint a qualified company secretary within 30 days of incorporation.

Choosing the best company secretary in Malaysia ensures your company stays in good standing with SSM (Companies Commission of Malaysia). Your secretary will handle:

• Annual return filings
• Board resolutions and meeting minutes
• Statutory document management
• Shareholder updates
• Liaison with SSM

Consistant Info provides expert company secretarial services for both local and foreign-owned companies. Their professionals are licensed and experienced in managing all aspects of corporate governance, allowing you to avoid fines, legal risks, and delays in operations.

Preparing for the Future: E-Invoice Malaysia Compliance

As part of its digital transformation, the Malaysian government is rolling out mandatory electronic invoicing to streamline tax reporting and improve transparency. All businesses will need to adapt — regardless of size or industry.

If you haven’t already, now’s the time to understand how e-Invoice Malaysia will affect your operations.

E-invoicing is being phased in over several years. Once active for your business category, you’ll be required to:

• Issue digital invoices through the MyInvois platform
• Record transactions in near real-time
• Link your accounting system to LHDN (Inland Revenue Board)

Companies that fail to comply may face penalties or be barred from claiming certain tax deductions. With automation and digital integration becoming the norm, businesses that prepare early will benefit from smoother operations and fewer compliance risks.

Consistant Info provides consulting services to help companies transition to the e-invoice system smoothly — whether through software integration or staff training.

Why Choose consistantinfo.com.my?

Whether you're starting a new venture or upgrading your current business structure, consistantinfo.com.my is your trusted partner in business compliance and strategy. Here’s why clients choose them:

• Experienced team: Over a decade of experience helping local and foreign entrepreneurs
• One-stop solutions: From incorporation to licensing, tax, and secretarial services
• Transparent pricing: No hidden fees, and clear breakdowns for all services
• Dedicated support: Friendly consultants who guide you every step of the way
• Regulatory expertise: Up-to-date knowledge on SSM, LHDN, immigration, and e-invoice laws

Their goal is simple: to help you launch and grow your business in Malaysia with peace of mind.