Dmitri Mihhailov
Managing Partner
Founder of Prifinance. 15+ years structuring international companies, banking and licensing for founders worldwide.
Register Сompany in Malaysia: Direct Access to ASEAN Markets.
Register a company in Malaysia (Sdn Bhd) to establish a solid foundation for expanding across the ASEAN region. The jurisdiction combines the reliability of English common law, an English-speaking business environment, and direct access to key economic initiatives - from the Malaysia Digital technology hub to the cross-border Johor-Singapore SEZ. It is a strategic choice for companies seeking a combination of strong reputation, asset protection, and seamless access to global markets.Register a company in Malaysia (Sdn Bhd) to establish a solid foundation for expanding across the ASEAN region. The jurisdiction combines the reliability of English common law, an English-speaking business environment, and direct access to key economic initiatives - from the Malaysia Digital technology hub to the cross-border Johor-Singapore SEZ. It is a strategic choice for companies seeking a combination of strong reputation, asset protection, and seamless access to global markets.
27 yrs
on the international marketon the market
60+
in-house specialistsspecialists
6,000+
companies servedcompanies served
Updated
Malaysia · at a glance
Legal formSdn Bhd - 100% foreign
Time to set up1-2 weeks
Corporate tax24% · incentives to 0%
Dividend WHTNone - single tier
Resident directorRequired
Remote setupYes - by POA
4.7
★★★★★
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Malaysia: Key Features
An Asian Operations Hub with Competitive Costs.
Malaysia combines an English-speaking business environment, a common law system, a well-developed professional infrastructure, and lower operating costs compared with Singapore. A company incorporated as an Sdn Bhd is registered through SSM, with 100% foreign ownership permitted in most sectors. The minimum paid-up capital can start from MYR 1. Dividends distributed under the single-tier tax system are not subject to withholding tax. Alongside the standard 24% corporate tax rate, specific sectors can benefit from targeted incentives, including Malaysia Digital with rates from 0% to 10% for qualifying technology companies, Pioneer Status and MIDA investment tax incentives for manufacturing projects, as well as preferential treatment for qualifying projects under the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone.
When choosing a structure, it is important to consider the applicable tax regime and sector-specific requirements. The 15-17% SME tax rates often cited in the context of Malaysia do not apply to companies with more than 20% foreign ownership; companies with 100% foreign capital generally plan around the standard 24% rate, with the possibility of applying available incentives. Following the abolition of GST, SST applies, with an 8% rate for many services. Tax rules for foreign-sourced income also changed in 2022. Certain protected sectors, including distributive trade, may be subject to additional foreign ownership requirements and prior approval. These conditions should be considered when selecting the corporate structure and business activity before incorporation.
Malaysia combines an English-speaking business environment, a common law system, a well-developed professional infrastructure, and lower operating costs compared with Singapore. A company incorporated as an Sdn Bhd is registered through SSM, with 100% foreign ownership permitted in most sectors. The minimum paid-up capital can start from MYR 1. Dividends distributed under the single-tier tax system are not subject to withholding tax. Alongside the standard 24% corporate tax rate, specific sectors can benefit from targeted incentives, including Malaysia Digital with rates from 0% to 10% for qualifying technology companies, Pioneer Status and MIDA investment tax incentives for manufacturing projects, as well as preferential treatment for qualifying projects under the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone.
When choosing a structure, it is important to consider the applicable tax regime and sector-specific requirements. The 15-17% SME tax rates often cited in the context of Malaysia do not apply to companies with more than 20% foreign ownership; companies with 100% foreign capital generally plan around the standard 24% rate, with the possibility of applying available incentives. Following the abolition of GST, SST applies, with an 8% rate for many services. Tax rules for foreign-sourced income also changed in 2022. Certain protected sectors, including distributive trade, may be subject to additional foreign ownership requirements and prior approval. These conditions should be considered when selecting the corporate structure and business activity before incorporation.
Packages & pricing
Register a Company in Malaysia - Costs and Packages.
01 - SDN BHD · MALAYSIA
Company
from$2,900USD · all-in
Register a Malaysia company (Sdn Bhd) - name reservation, preparation of the constitution, filing with SSM, tax registrations, a corporate secretary, and the first year of a registered office included.
✓Resident-director solution designed first✓Name reservation & SSM incorporation✓Licensed company secretary - first year✓Registered address in Kuala Lumpur - first year✓Corporate tax & SST registrations✓Free pre-incorporation consultation
Optional add-ons: resident director service - from $2,000/year · Malaysia Digital application - from $2,500 · Employment Pass - from $1,500 · accounting - from $200/month · renewal - from $1,800/year.Optional add-ons: resident director service - from $2,000/year · Malaysia Digital application - from $2,500 · Employment Pass - from $1,500 · accounting - from $200/month · renewal - from $1,800/year.
Start with Company →02 - SDN BHD · MALAYSIA
Most popularCompany + Bank Account
from$4,900USD · all-in
Existing Sdn Bhd with a Malaysian bank account - a MYR account and multi-currency balances with a major bank, opened based on a properly prepared application file.
✓Everything in Company✓Account with Maybank, CIMB or peers✓Multi-currency - MYR, USD, SGD✓KYC file & business-plan preparation✓Compliance onboarding support✓Dedicated account manager
Start with Banking →Prices are indicative starting rates and are confirmed before work begins. SSM, stamp duty, and licensing fees are listed separately in the quotation. Prices are indicative starting rates and are confirmed before work begins. SSM, stamp duty, and licensing fees are listed separately in the quotation.
What you can do
Key Business Sectors in Malaysia.
The jurisdiction supports a wide range of activities, from regional trade and e-commerce to advanced manufacturing and financial services.
Technology and IT (Malaysia Digital)
Software development, digital platforms, data processing, and FinTech projects. Qualifying companies under Malaysia Digital (MD) can access special tax incentives.
Manufacturing and Electronics (MIDA Incentives)
Manufacturing facilities and supply chains, including the semiconductor cluster in Penang. MIDA investment tax incentives are available for qualifying projects.
International Trade and E-commerce
Distribution and trading operations across ASEAN markets, supported by Malaysia’s infrastructure and regional logistics networks.
Cross-Border Projects in the Johor-Singapore SEZ
Operations within the special economic zone near Singapore. Qualifying projects, including advanced manufacturing and selected service activities, may benefit from a 5% corporate tax rate.
Islamic Financial Services and Structures
Financial platforms, Sukuk issuance, and related legal, audit, and financial services in one of the world’s leading Islamic finance centres.
Regional Shared Services / Back Office
Operational, finance, IT, and HR centres for international groups supported by a skilled English-speaking workforce.
Why Malaysia
Why Businesses Choose Malaysia.
✓
Lower Operating Costs
Labour, office space, and professional services cost significantly less than in Singapore.Labour, office space, and professional services cost significantly less than in Singapore.
✓
No Withholding Tax on Dividends
The single-tier tax system allows profits to be distributed without withholding tax.The single-tier tax system allows profits to be distributed without withholding tax.
✓
English Common Law
Contracts, courts, and corporate procedures operate within a Common Law framework.Contracts, courts, and corporate procedures operate within a Common Law framework.
✓
Comprehensive Tax Incentives
Malaysia Digital, Pioneer Status, ITA, and JS-SEZ offer preferential tax treatment for qualifying projects.Malaysia Digital, Pioneer Status, ITA, and JS-SEZ offer preferential tax treatment for qualifying projects.
✓
Skilled Talent Pool
Access to a broad base of English-speaking professionals in finance, engineering, IT, and outsourcing.Access to a broad base of English-speaking professionals in finance, engineering, IT, and outsourcing.
✓
Strategic Location
Direct access to ASEAN markets, regional supply chains, and Singapore.Direct access to ASEAN markets, regional supply chains, and Singapore.
How it compares
Malaysia vs. Other ASEAN Countries: Choosing a Jurisdiction for Company Registration.
Malaysia combines a 24% standard corporate tax rate with a range of incentives for qualifying sectors. Singapore offers a 17% rate, Indonesia provides access to a large domestic market, Thailand has an established industrial base, while Vietnam offers strong manufacturing infrastructure. Data current as of 2026.Malaysia combines a 24% standard corporate tax rate with a range of incentives for qualifying sectors. Singapore offers a 17% rate, Indonesia provides access to a large domestic market, Thailand has an established industrial base, while Vietnam offers strong manufacturing infrastructure. Data current as of 2026.
| Country | Corporate Tax | Foreign Ownership | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Malaysia | 24% · incentives | 100% in most sectors | Balance of costs and infrastructure |
| Singapore | 17% | 100% | Premium financial centre |
| Indonesia | 22% · incentives | 100% in permitted sectors | Market scale and resources |
| Thailand | 20% | Up to 49% in most sectors | Established industrial base |
| Vietnam | 20% | 100% in permitted sectors | Manufacturing and export supply chains |
MalaysiaBalance of costs and infrastructure
Corporate Tax24% · incentives
Foreign Ownership100% in most sectors
SingaporePremium financial centre
Corporate Tax17%
Foreign Ownership100%
IndonesiaMarket scale and resources
Corporate Tax22% · incentives
Foreign Ownership100% in permitted sectors
ThailandEstablished industrial base
Corporate Tax20%
Foreign OwnershipUp to 49% in most sectors
VietnamManufacturing and export supply chains
Corporate Tax20%
Foreign Ownership100% in permitted sectors
Requirements
Key Requirements for Registering an Sdn Bhd in Malaysia.
01
Ownership Structure - One shareholder is sufficient - an individual or legal entity of any nationality or place of residence. 100% foreign ownership is permitted in most sectors.
02
Resident Director - At least one director must be ordinarily resident in Malaysia. This requirement can be met through an Employment Pass or by appointing a professional resident director.
03
Corporate Secretary - A licensed Malaysian corporate secretary must be appointed within 30 days of incorporation.
04
Share Capital - The legal minimum is MYR 1. For opening a bank account and obtaining work visas, the required capital may range from RM 50,000 to RM 500,000, depending on the company’s profile.
05
Registered Office - The company must maintain a registered office in Malaysia for keeping corporate records and receiving official correspondence.
06
Reporting and Audit - The Sdn Bhd must file an annual return and CIT/SST tax returns. Financial statements are subject to audit where required by law.
How it works
Company Registration Process in Malaysia.
Sdn Bhd incorporation through SSM is completed electronically and usually takes several days. In parallel, key aspects of the setup are prepared, including the management structure, applicable incentives, and banking arrangements.Sdn Bhd incorporation through SSM is completed electronically and usually takes several days. In parallel, key aspects of the setup are prepared, including the management structure, applicable incentives, and banking arrangements.
01Same day
Free Consultation
Assessment of requirements, available incentives, and necessary sector approvals.
022-4 days
KYC & Name Reservation
Collection of corporate documents and reservation of the company name with SSM.
033-7 days
Company Incorporation
Registration of the Sdn Bhd with SSM and appointment of a licensed corporate secretary.
041 week
Tax Registration & SST
Opening the tax profile and registering for SST where applicable thresholds are met.
054-10 weeks
Tax Incentives
Application for Malaysia Digital, MIDA incentives, or JS-SEZ benefits where applicable.
062-6 weeks
Bank Account & Work Permits
Opening a corporate bank account and arranging an Employment Pass where required.
Quick facts
Legal formSdn Bhd
Shareholders1+ - any nationality
Corporate tax24% standard
SME rates15-17% - ≤20% foreign only
Dividend WHTNone
Standard timeline1-2 weeks
Renewal & accountingFrom $1,800/year
The requirement to have a director ordinarily resident in Malaysia must be addressed before incorporation. The management structure needs to meet this condition from the outset, so we arrange the appropriate solution before registration.
On the ground
On the ground in Malaysia.
Prifinance - Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
01
ASEAN specialists
Your setup is run with KL secretaries and tax advisers who file Sdn Bhds every week.
02
Director solved honestly
Employment Pass or professional resident director - priced and papered before you commit.
03
Incentives actually claimed
MD status, MIDA and JS-SEZ applications built into the plan, not mentioned after it.
04
Also in Tallinn, London, Dubai & more
A network of offices across Europe, the Gulf and the Americas - one team for your whole international structure.
We also have offices in
Tallinn
Estonia
Roseni 13
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
5/F, Yau Lee Centre, 45 Hoi Yuen Road, Kwun Tong
Vilnius
Lithuania
Gedimino pr. 2
London
United Kingdom
7 Bell Yard
Prague
Czech Republic
Vlkova 532/8, Žižkov
Berlin
Germany
Rankestraße 26
Madeira
Portugal
Rua da Alegria 31, 1F
Budapest
Hungary
Korányi Sándor u. 4
Istanbul
Türkiye
Perpa Ticaret Merkezi, A Blok
Dubai
UAE
33 Level, Al Saqr Business Tower
Toronto
Canada
1110 Finch Avenue West, suite 406
Singapore
Singapore
3 Church Street, #29-68 Samsung Hub
Bangkok
Thailand
Unit P01, Penthouse, VASU1, 1 Sukhumvit 25 Alley
Foshan
China
A-Tower, Yuneng Digital Plaza, 46 Lishui Avenue South
Almaty
Kazakhstan
Republic Square 13
Bishkek
Kyrgyzstan
32 Razzakov Street
Taxation 2026
Taxation in Malaysia: Standard Rate and Available Incentives.
Corporate tax in Malaysia is 24%, with special tax incentives available for certain activities and projects. Malaysia Digital, Pioneer Status, investment incentives, and JS-SEZ can provide qualifying companies with reduced rates. Dividends are paid without withholding tax, while SST applies to certain goods and services.Corporate tax in Malaysia is 24%, with special tax incentives available for certain activities and projects. Malaysia Digital, Pioneer Status, investment incentives, and JS-SEZ can provide qualifying companies with reduced rates. Dividends are paid without withholding tax, while SST applies to certain goods and services.
Corporate Tax - 24%
The standard rate for companies with 100% foreign ownership; SME rates are available where foreign ownership does not exceed 20%.The standard rate for companies with 100% foreign ownership; SME rates are available where foreign ownership does not exceed 20%.
Tax Incentives - 0-10%
Malaysia Digital - 0-10%; Pioneer Status, ITA, and JS-SEZ - 5% for qualifying projects.Malaysia Digital - 0-10%; Pioneer Status, ITA, and JS-SEZ - 5% for qualifying projects.
Dividends - 0%
The single-tier tax system allows dividends to be distributed without withholding tax.The single-tier tax system allows dividends to be distributed without withholding tax.
SST - up to 8%
Sales and service tax applies to certain goods and services once the applicable registration thresholds are met.Sales and service tax applies to certain goods and services once the applicable registration thresholds are met.
Tax Rates and Fees in 2026
Corporate tax24%
SME rates15-17% with ≤20% foreign ownership
Malaysia Digital / JS-SEZ0-10% / 5%
Dividends0% WHT
SST on servicesUp to 8%
Renewal and accountingFrom $1,800/year
Tax obligations also depend on the owners’ country of tax residence. Foreign-sourced income remitted to Malaysia is subject to separate rules introduced following the 2022 changes.
Your team
The specialists who'll handle your case.
Eugeniu Bevziuc
International Business Consultant
Guides clients from the first consultation to a working setup - companies, accounts and substance in 60+ jurisdictions.
Alex Danila
Corporate Services Specialist
Handles incorporation paperwork, KYC and bank introductions so your Malaysian company launches without delays.
Follow Prifinance
Active across our channels.
Company Registration in Malaysia: Costs, Timeline & Requirements
The easy middle, entered with the fine print already solved - director, company, incentives and bank in one prepared project. Full support, start to finish.
Talk to a specialist →FAQ
How to Register a Company in Malaysia, answered.
Can I register Malaysia company without visiting in person?+
Yes. Company incorporation, tax procedures, and the appointment of a corporate secretary can be completed remotely under a power of attorney. When opening a bank account, some banks may require an in-person meeting with a director, although certain procedures can be completed by video call. If an Employment Pass is planned, the visit can be combined with relocation.
How much does it cost to register a company in Malaysia?+
Turnkey registration starts from $2,900, including a licensed secretary and a registered office for the first year. A package with banking support starts from $4,900. Resident director services, where required, start from $2,000 per year. Renewal with accounting support starts from $1,800 per year.
Is a Malaysia-resident director required?+
Yes. At least one director must be ordinarily resident in Malaysia. This requirement can be met by relocating a founder with an Employment Pass or appointing a professional resident director. The structure should be determined before incorporation, as it affects subsequent banking and permit arrangements.
What corporate tax rate should I plan for?+
For a company with 100% foreign ownership, the standard rate to plan for is 24%. SME rates of 15-17% do not apply where foreign ownership exceeds 20%. Qualifying projects may benefit from Malaysia Digital rates of 0-10%, manufacturing incentives, and a 5% rate under the JS-SEZ. Dividends are distributed without withholding tax.
What does Malaysia Digital status offer?+
Malaysia Digital is a special regime for qualifying technology companies, including software developers, digital platforms, data solutions, and other digital projects. Approved activities may qualify for corporate tax rates of 0-10% and additional conditions for hiring foreign specialists. Obtaining the status involves an assessment by MDEC.
What is the Johor-Singapore SEZ?+
The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone is designed to promote cross-border projects between Johor and Singapore. Qualifying activities, including advanced manufacturing, logistics, and digital projects, may benefit from tax incentives, streamlined procedures, and cross-border talent opportunities.
Malaysia or Labuan: where should I register a company?+
These are two different regimes within the same country. An Sdn Bhd is an onshore company suited to operating activities, access to the Malaysian market, local hiring, and full-scale banking. Labuan is primarily geared toward international trading and financial services, with a separate tax regime and economic substance requirements.
Are there restrictions on foreign ownership in certain sectors?+
Yes. Certain activities remain subject to foreign ownership restrictions and additional approvals. These may include distributive trade, selected logistics, education, oil and gas, and other regulated activities. Most IT, manufacturing, trading, and professional services are open to foreign investors.
How can I open a corporate bank account in Malaysia?+
Opening a corporate account usually takes 2-6 weeks with a properly prepared application file. The bank assesses the company structure, directors’ documents, nature of the activity, business model, and expected transactions. Multi-currency accounts are available, including USD transactions.
How long does it take to register business in Malaysia?+
Company incorporation and tax registration usually take 1-2 weeks. Opening a bank account takes an additional 2-6 weeks, while an Employment Pass takes around 4-8 weeks. Applications for Malaysia Digital, MIDA, and JS-SEZ follow separate procedures and may take 4-10 weeks.
Client notes
Google4.7★★★★★
Founders who wanted it done right.
Google4.7★★★★★
“As a software development crew at FewMoreTaps OÜ, we've had the pleasure of working with Prifinance on some key financial moves.First of all, navigating the world of corporate banking and finance can be a maze, but Prifinance made it feel like a walk in the park. They helped us set up a corporate bank account without the hassle of jumping on a plane or drowning in paperwork. Everything was done remotely, smoothly…”
Google
“I had their assistance in company registration and I would recommend them. They were answering all my clarification during the process and offering all their supportThank you Daniel and Irinia”
Google
“We found PRIFINANCE COMPANYvia the Internet and asked for help in organizing the opening of their company in Estonia. PRIFINANCE COMPANY specialists helped us a lot with this. Their professional, competent approach and knowledge of their business left us with only the best impressions.”
Google
“I'm thrilled with my experience with PriFinance! They helped me obtain a crypto license in Estonia without any hassle. The team was super understanding and always available to answer my questions and assist. It was great to see how they put effort into preparing the documents to ensure everything went smoothly. I'm delighted with the outcome and highly recommend PriFinance to anyone looking to get a license…”
Google
“Opening an account with Prifinance in a Swiss bank was such an easy and quick process that I was shocked. It all started with the first call, where I received detailed guidance on the required documents and the entire procedure.One of the key highlights was their attention to detail. As someone who usually gets tangled up in paperwork, I was pleasantly surprised when they sent me all the documents and…”
Google
“I recently had the pleasure of working with Boris.. and I must say, it was a fantastic experience. Boris went above and beyond to assist me with my residency needs. His professionalism, knowledge, and dedication truly stood out. I highly recommend working with Boris and the team!”
Google
More from Prifinance
Other jurisdictions & licenses.
Free consultation
Start your Malaysian company today.
Tell us about your business and a specialist will reply within one business day with an honest recommendation - Sdn Bhd, Labuan or a different flag - a timeline and a fixed quote.A Malaysia specialist will reply within one business day with an honest recommendation, a timeline and a fixed quote.
✓No obligation - the first consultation is free✓Resident-director solution designed first✓Transparent fixed fees, confirmed up front✓EN · RU speaking team