Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common questions about starting and growing your business in Malaysia. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our team is just a message away.
Company Registration & Setup
Yes, in most sectors foreigners can own 100% of a Malaysian Sdn Bhd (private limited company). However, certain regulated industries — such as retail, wholesale, education, agriculture, and oil & gas — have foreign equity restrictions or require specific licenses like the WRT License for foreign-owned trading businesses. We’ll assess your business activity during consultation to confirm the ownership structure that applies to you.
A Sdn Bhd is a standard Malaysian private limited company based in West or East Malaysia, ideal for businesses operating in the local market. A Labuan Company is incorporated in the Federal Territory of Labuan and is designed for international business, offering tax advantages (3% or flat rate on audited net profits), 100% foreign ownership, and fewer operational requirements — but it comes with restrictions on doing business with Malaysian residents. The right choice depends on your target market and tax strategy.
For a standard Sdn Bhd, the minimum paid-up capital is RM1. However, if your company will hire foreign employees under an Employment Pass, a minimum paid-up capital of RM500,000 to RM1 million is typically required, depending on foreign equity. Regulated sectors may have higher capital requirements. We’ll advise the optimal capital structure based on your business plans.
A standard Sdn Bhd can be registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) within 5 to 10 working days, provided all documents are in order. Additional time may be needed for industry-specific licenses, tax registration, and opening a corporate bank account. We handle the entire process end-to-end, so timelines are predictable.
Yes. The entire company registration process can be completed remotely. Documents can be signed digitally or via courier, and we act as your local representative throughout the process. You only need to be physically present in Malaysia for specific steps such as corporate bank account opening (for most banks) — and even then, some banks now accept video verification.
Business Licenses
The WRT License (Wholesale, Retail, Trade License) is issued by the Ministry of Domestic Trade (KPDN) and is mandatory for foreign-owned companies (51%–100% foreign equity) engaged in retail, wholesale, trading, import/export, or restaurant businesses. Without it, foreign-owned businesses cannot legally operate in these sectors. We handle the application, documentation, and liaison with KPDN on your behalf.
Beyond SSM registration, most physical businesses require a Business Premise License and a Signboard License from the local council. Industry-specific licenses may also apply — for example, F&B businesses need health and halal certifications, financial services require Bank Negara or SC approval, and education providers need MOE or MOHE licensing. We map out every license your business needs during the initial consultation.
Visa & Immigration
The Employment Pass (EP) is a work visa for foreign professionals employed by a Malaysian company. It’s issued in three categories based on salary (EP Category I, II, and III), with minimum monthly salaries starting from RM5,000. The company must meet paid-up capital requirements and justify hiring a foreign worker. We manage the full application through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) or relevant agencies like MDEC.
MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) is a long-term residence visa for foreigners who want to live in Malaysia without necessarily working. The current requirements include a minimum monthly offshore income, a fixed deposit placed in a Malaysian bank, and proof of liquid assets. Requirements vary by tier (Silver, Gold, Platinum) and have been updated in recent years — we stay current with the latest rules and guide eligible applicants through the process.
Yes. Once you hold a valid work visa (such as Employment Pass) or MM2H, your spouse and children under 18 can join you under a Dependant Pass. Parents can also be sponsored under a Long-Term Social Visit Pass. We handle dependent applications alongside the principal visa to ensure the whole family relocates smoothly.
Tax, Accounting & Banking
Malaysia’s standard corporate tax rate is 24%. Small and medium companies (paid-up capital of RM2.5 million or less, with annual revenue under RM50 million) enjoy a lower rate of 15% on the first RM150,000, 17% on the next RM450,000, and 24% on income above RM600,000. Labuan companies are taxed separately at 3% on audited net profits or a flat RM20,000 for trading activities. We provide full tax advisory to optimize your structure legally.
Yes, but it’s often the most time-consuming part of setting up a business. Malaysian banks require full KYC documentation, proof of business activity, and typically an in-person meeting with directors (though some banks now accept remote verification). Approval can take 2 to 6 weeks depending on the bank and business profile. We prepare all documentation, recommend banks that suit your business, and accompany you through the process.
Every Malaysian company must maintain proper accounting records, submit annual returns to SSM, hold an Annual General Meeting (for certain company types), file audited financial statements, and submit tax returns to LHDN (Inland Revenue Board). Companies with employees must also contribute to EPF, SOCSO, and EIS monthly. We offer ongoing accounting, tax, and compliance support so you stay fully compliant without the headache.
Working with Horizon Hub
We provide custom quotes tailored to each client because every business has different needs — your industry, ownership structure, licensing requirements, and timeline all affect the scope of work. After an initial consultation to understand your goals, we provide a transparent, all-inclusive proposal with no hidden fees. You’ll know exactly what’s included and what it costs before we begin.
We offer genuine end-to-end service — from company registration and licensing to visas, tax, accounting, staffing, and even digital marketing — all under one roof. You won’t need to juggle multiple agencies. Our team combines deep knowledge of Malaysian regulations with practical business experience, and we maintain strong relationships with government authorities, banks, and legal advisors. Most importantly, we stay with you beyond registration, supporting your business as it grows.