What is Business License?

General and Special Licenses: Essential Permits for Malaysian Businesses
November 13, 2023 by
What is Business License?
CONZLAB BERHAD, Penny Lim

Business License Video Description 

Before a business can start operating, it needs to get some kind of license, like a general license, industry-specific license, or activity-specific license.

The business license is a legal requirement managed by government agencies, statutory bodies, and local governments. 

The application process includes registration, approval, and getting the license, and the compliance requirements vary based on the industry, business activities, and location.

There are three types of business licenses, for example.

General License

A general license is like a special permission that investors need when they decide to start a business in Malaysia. 

Licenses applicable to common types of businesses include:

  • Company Registration
  • Corporate and Employee Income Tax Registration
  • Employees KWSP
  • Socso
  • EIS
  • Business license and Signboard License

Special Industry License

Special industries have individual special licenses, and the government will have specific requirements for this.

Furthermore, this involves major policies to regulate the development of certain industries in accordance with national development policies.

  • Manufacturing related licenses
  • Licenses related to wholesale, retail trade
  • Licenses related to the telecommunications industry
  • Licenses related to the broadcasting industry
  • Licenses related to the petroleum extraction industry
  • Licenses related to the construction industry
  • Banking related licenses

Examples of special license

An activity-specific license is like a special permission used to control specific activities in Malaysia. It's needed for certain jobs or businesses. These licenses make sure that investors follow rules to protect people, workers, the environment, and everyone's safety.

Examples of special licenses for activities are as follows:

  • Mechanical certificate
  • Foreign employee approval certificate
  • License to install/modify air pollution control equipment 
    (baghouses and chimneys)
  • Building Plan Approval License
  • sales tax license license


Generally, the documents required for both commercial premises license and sign license applications are the same. However, the list of documents to apply for may vary depending on each local government agency.

Braxton Lee • Licensing Consultant


What is Business License?
CONZLAB BERHAD, Penny Lim November 13, 2023
Share this post
Tags
Archive