How to Register a Sole Proprietorship in Malaysia: 2026 SSM Guide
A sole proprietorship is one of the simplest ways for an individual to start a business in Malaysia. Registration is handled by the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), and eligible owners can use SSM's online business registration service.
If you are a Malaysian citizen or permanent resident aged 18 or above, you can register a sole proprietorship with SSM. The current registration fee is RM30 per year if you use your personal name exactly as stated on your identity card, or RM60 per year if you use a trade name. Each registered branch costs RM5 per year.
What is a sole proprietorship?
SSM describes a sole proprietorship as a business wholly owned by a single individual. The business may operate using the owner's personal name as stated on the identity card or an approved trade name.
A sole proprietorship is different from a Sdn Bhd company. If you are deciding between the two structures, compare the differences before registering.
Compare Sole Proprietorship vs Sdn Bhd
Who can register?
According to SSM, the owner must be a Malaysian citizen or permanent resident and must be 18 years old or above. The owner must also register and be verified as an EzBiz user before using the online registration service.
Step 1: Choose between your personal name and a trade name
You have two basic naming options. A personal name uses the same name stated on your identity card. A trade name is a separate business name that you want to use for the business and is subject to SSM's business-name requirements.
| Option | Example | SSM fee |
|---|---|---|
| Personal name | Your name as stated on your identity card | RM30/year |
| Trade name | A separate business or brand name | RM60/year |
| Branch | Each registered branch | RM5/year |
Step 2: Set up access to SSM's online service
SSM provides online business registration through EzBiz. In 2026, SSM announced that access to EzBiz Online moved to the SSM4U Portal from 24 May 2026. If you are following an older tutorial that sends you directly to the old login flow, use SSM's current portal instructions instead.
View official SSM EzBiz guidance
Step 3: Prepare your business information
Prepare the details you will need before starting the application. These generally include your proposed business name, principal business address, business activity or activities, owner information and details of any branches.
- MyKad / identification details
- Personal name or proposed trade name
- Principal business address
- Business activity information
- Branch details, if applicable
- Online payment method
Step 4: Submit the new business registration
Complete the new business registration through SSM's online service and provide the requested information. Make sure the registered business activity is appropriate to the business name and accurately describes what you intend to do.
SSM's registration guidance states that a business should be registered no later than 30 days from the date the business starts.
Step 5: Pay the registration fee
The current SSM fee is RM30 per year for a sole proprietorship using the owner's personal name or RM60 per year when using a trade name. Each branch costs RM5 per year. SSM also lists Business Information at RM10.
SSM's EzBiz page states that payment can be made by credit card or FPX online banking.
Step 6: Wait for approval and download your documents
SSM's published EzBiz client charter states a processing period of within one working day (24 hours) after an application is received. Actual processing can depend on whether the application is complete or requires further action.
After approval, business owners can download their certificate and purchased business information through the online service. SSM currently states that these documents are available for download for 90 days after approval, after which they may need to be purchased again through an appointed SSM service provider.
How long can you register for?
SSM's registration guidance states that a new business registration can be valid for one year and can be registered for a period not exceeding five years at each registration. Renewal fees follow the same RM30 personal-name or RM60 trade-name annual fee structure, plus RM5 per year for each branch.
What should you do after registering?
SSM registration establishes the business registration, but it does not automatically complete every requirement for running your business. Depending on what you do, your next steps may include opening a business bank account, setting up accounting records, checking tax obligations, preparing for e-Invoice, arranging payroll if you hire employees, and obtaining licences or permits relevant to your activity.
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Sole proprietorship or Sdn Bhd?
A sole proprietorship can be attractive for a small owner-operated business because registration and administration are relatively simple. A Sdn Bhd is a separate incorporated company with a more formal structure and ongoing compliance requirements. The right choice depends on factors such as your business risk, expected growth, ownership plans and administrative needs.
Use the free Business Setup Finder
Answer a few questions about your business and BizSetupMY will help you identify a more suitable starting point.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to register a sole proprietorship in Malaysia?
SSM currently charges RM30 per year when you register using your personal name and RM60 per year when using a trade name. Each branch costs RM5 per year.
Can a foreigner register a sole proprietorship in Malaysia?
SSM's current requirements state that the owner must be a Malaysian citizen or permanent resident.
Can I register online?
Yes. SSM provides online new business registration through its EzBiz service, with access now routed through the SSM4U Portal.
Do I need a company secretary?
A company secretary is a requirement associated with incorporated companies such as a Sdn Bhd. A sole proprietorship is registered as a business under SSM's Registration of Business framework rather than incorporated as a Sdn Bhd company.
Important
This guide is general educational information and is not legal, tax or accounting advice. Government procedures, eligibility rules and fees can change. Always confirm the latest requirements with SSM before submitting your application.