Description
- A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) is an entity established by individuals or groups without direct government involvement, aiming to achieve specific social, welfare, or community objectives.
GOV Department
- The Registrar of Societies Malaysia (ROS) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (Kementerian Dalam Negeri, KDN) is responsible for the registration and regulation of NGOs in Malaysia.
License Name (Malay)
- Perakuan Pendaftaran Pertubuhan (Certificate of Organization Registration)
Details
To register an NGO, the following steps must be followed:
- Appoint a Minimum of 7 Members:
- This includes a chairman, secretary, treasurer, and other committee members.
- Select an Organization Name & Address:
- The name must be in Malay, with an English translation if necessary (e.g., "Pertubuhan Bulan Penuh (Full Moon Organization)").
- The official address determines the ROS branch that will process the application.
- Prepare the Organization’s Constitution:
- ROS provides a standard template, or organizations can draft their own constitution aligned with their objectives.
- Design an Emblem/Logo:
- A logo that represents the identity and purpose of the NGO must be submitted.
- Submit Information via the e-ROS System:
- The secretary must fill in all details correctly in the e-ROS system (https://www.eroses.gov.my/ros.php) before submitting the application.
Important Rules
NGOs must comply with the Societies Act 1966, which includes:
- Constitution Compliance:
- All activities must align with the approved constitution.
- Financial Management:
- Proper and transparent financial records must be maintained.
- Annual General Meetings (AGM):
- NGOs must hold AGMs as per their constitution.
Compound & Punishment
Failure to comply with the regulations can result in legal action, including:
- Fines:
- For example, an NGO and its five directors were fined RM242,000 by the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) for failing to submit financial statements within the stipulated timeframe.
- Imprisonment:
- Individuals involved in unauthorized organizations may face up to five years in prison or a fine of up to RM15,000, or both.
Advisor
Penny Lim , Legal Consulting
Ms. Penny is responsible for identifying possible legal issues and implementing solutions in the areas of government regulation, customer protection, and fair employment. Legal Counsel. Ms. Penny can advise on legal issues such as government and business permits, review legal documents before signing them, and complete legal research as needed by the company