Many Get Stuck Right Here — and Lose Months-FOZL - International Accounting & Advisory Firm

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Many Get Stuck Right Here — and Lose Months

In Malaysia, registering your company is only the first legal step. To actually start operating, you’ll need to apply for several industry-specific licenses — or risk being fined, shut down, or blocked from trading altogether.

Here are three licenses that many businesses overlook:

1. Manufacturing: Requires a MIDA Manufacturing License
If your business involves assembling, processing, or production, you must apply for a license from MIDA (Malaysian Investment Development Authority).
No license, no legal production — even if your factory is ready.

2. Construction: CIDB License + Green Card for Workers
Construction companies must register with CIDB (Construction Industry Development Board) to get a valid company license.
All site workers are also required to hold a Green Card, certifying their legal work status.

3. Wholesale & Trade: Foreign-Owned Companies Need WRT
If your company is more than 50% foreign-owned and plans to trade, import, or wholesale, you must obtain a WRT License (Wholesale, Retail and Trade License).
Without it, you cannot legally sell your goods — even if they’re already in Malaysia.

Registration ≠ Operation — Don’t Let Compliance Slow You Down
These licenses are not optional — they are mandatory by law.
Too many businesses focus only on registration and overlook the next steps.
End result? Their company is registered, but their operations are delayed for months while waiting for approvals.

So remember:
Registering a company ≠ having full business rights.
Every industry has its own compliance path.
Plan early and stay compliant — that’s how you move forward confidently.

Follow FOZL, your trusted partner for business setup and compliance in Malaysia.
We help Chinese enterprises handle everything from registration to licensing, tax, visas, and beyond.

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