An Overview of Setting Up a Company in Malaysia
Malaysia’s appeal lies in its strategic geographic location in Southeast Asia, strong trade connectivity, political and economic stability, and affordable cost of living. It also continues to perform well in international benchmarks, ranking 23rd in the Global Competitiveness Report 2025 and 33rd in the Global Innovation Index 2024. Additionally, negotiations for a Malaysia-EU Free Trade Agreement resumed in early 2025, highlighting the country’s commitment to strengthening global trade relations.
These factors, combined with a growing demand for diversified industries such as the digital economy, renewable energy, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing, make Malaysia an increasingly attractive destination for company formation and investment in 2026.
Our commitment to excellence as one of Malaysia’s leading corporate service providers has been consistently recognised by authorities, regulatory bodies, and professional organisations. Over the years, we have received prestigious acknowledgements, including the Malaysia Brands Award and the distinction of being named Best Company Registration Specialist of the Year in Malaysia.
As a trusted corporate services provider, we deliver comprehensive, cost-effective, and end-to-end solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses, from start-ups to established enterprises.
- Malaysia Company Incorporation Services
- Venture to Malaysia with 3E Accounting Singapore
- Why 3E Accounting’s Company Incorporation Package is the best in Malaysia
- Malaysia Company Registration Packages
- Nominee Director Services
- Business License Application
- Guide for Opening Corporate Bank Account
- MSC Malaysia Status Application
- Labuan Company Setup
- Malaysia Business Support Services
- Malaysia Shelf Company
If you are looking for a ready-made shelf company that can be purchased for immediate operation, please refer to our Shelf Company Listing for more information.
Our goal is to simplify the entire business setup journey by providing professional guidance and practical solutions at every stage.
Malaysia Company Incorporation Services
Registering a company in Malaysia involves several regulatory steps with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). The process typically takes 5–7 working days; however, in some cases, incorporation can be completed within one working day once the directors and shareholders have signed the necessary documents.
At 3E Accounting, all fees for company setup are presented transparently, ensuring there are no hidden charges. Incorporation services are offered alongside a comprehensive Company Secretarial Services Package, which helps businesses remain compliant with statutory requirements after registration.
Why 3E Accounting’s Company Incorporation Package is the best in Malaysia?
Incorporating a business in Malaysia can be a complex process, but with the right support, it becomes significantly more efficient. 3E Accounting offers a structured incorporation package designed to simplify company registration while ensuring compliance with local laws.
- Comprehensive coverage – Guidance from company name reservation to post-incorporation compliance.
- Efficient timelines – Incorporation completed as quickly as one working day in eligible cases.
- Electronic setup options – Digital processes to streamline submissions and reduce paperwork.
Malaysia Company Registration Packages
3E Accounting’s approach focuses on the 3Es: Efficiency, Effectiveness, and Economy. By combining professional expertise with practical solutions, businesses can begin operations without unnecessary delays.
Available services include:
- Malaysia company incorporation and registration
- Secretarial support and compliance services
- Business licensing guidance
- Assistance with opening a corporate bank account
- Advisory on business structures and statutory obligations
Nominee Director Services
All Companies are required to have at least two directors, each of whom has their principal or only place of residence within Malaysia. Through the SSM, Malaysian company details are available for public viewing, including the names of shareholders and directors, the date of incorporation, share capital, and registered address.
At 3E Accounting, we are currently providing our Nominee Director Service at a promotional price for registering a new company. We will offer you a lower security deposit for two directors, provided the company is in good standing, as verified through a detailed company search. We will perform the search free of charge. As the principal, you must satisfy our initial Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements to start a company.
Business License Application
When setting up a company in Malaysia, certain licenses and permits must be obtained before commencing business operations. The type of license required depends on the nature of the business and regulatory requirements. Common licenses include:
- Business Premises License and Signboard License – Required from the respective State Authorities; requirements vary by local council.
- Employment Agency License
Mandatory for companies operating as private employment agencies, issued by the Ministry of Human Resources Malaysia. - Wholesale Retail Trade (WRT) License
Required for foreign-owned companies (over 50% foreign equity). This applies to businesses in retail, trading (import/export), distributive trades, restaurants, franchise operations, and consultancy services. The license is issued by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN). - Publishing Permit
Required for any entity importing, publishing, selling, distributing, or circulating periodicals in Malaysia. Issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA). - Printing Machine License
Mandatory for companies operating printing machines with a capacity exceeding 1,000 impressions per hour for commercial publishing, also issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Obtaining the appropriate licenses ensures compliance with Malaysian regulations and enables smooth business operations from the start.
Guide for Opening Corporate Bank Account
Opening a corporate bank account is a crucial step after incorporating a company in Malaysia. Banks typically require documents such as the Certificate of Incorporation, Company Constitution, Directors’ Resolution, and details of shareholders and directors.
Foreign-owned companies may be subject to additional scrutiny. The chances of a successful application are generally higher if the company has:
- A strong holding company overseas, or
- A clear business plan demonstrating financial stability and operational intent.
Different banks may impose varying requirements, so businesses are encouraged to prepare complete documentation to facilitate the process.
MSC Malaysia Status Application
By getting MSC Status for your company, you will be able to enjoy the following benefits, including Pioneer Status (PS), Investment Tax Allowance (ITA), Duty Free Importation, and Foreign Knowledge Workers. Our affiliated partner is an expert in the MSC Malaysia Status application. We cover the entire process of the MSC application right up to the final stages of the Approval Committee’s decision.
Labuan Company Setup
A Labuan company is an excellent business entity incorporated in a low-tax jurisdiction. One of the significant advantages of doing business on this small island is that all companies can secure Malaysian employment visas for their staff. Moreover, Labuan was established as an international offshore financial and banking centre 26 years ago. Malaysia has a tax haven on Labuan island, offering corporate tax rates as low as 3 per cent. Contact us for more information about how to create a company in Labuan.
Malaysia Business Support Services
As one of the top-performing one-stop Malaysia business support service providers, 3E Accounting Malaysia provides a comprehensive Malaysia Business Support Services to both foreign and local companies in the country. As at today, 3E Accounting Malaysia has incorporated several hundreds companies along with its value-added on-going company administration services and corporate support services.
Venture to Malaysia with 3E Accounting Singapore
3E Accounting Singapore foresees the opportunities and has set up a Malaysia desk in Singapore to help you navigate the ins and outs of doing business in Malaysia with our professional consultation services.
We know that service by phone may be more convenient than having to write and wait for a reply, or having to take time off from work to go to the Malaysia office.