If you’re planning to start a business in Malaysia, one of the first steps is to apply for a business license from your local authority.
However, each local council — such as DBKL (Kuala Lumpur City Hall), MBPJ (Petaling Jaya), MBSA (Shah Alam), or MPSJ (Subang Jaya) — has its own application process and requirements.
Understanding these differences can save time and prevent unnecessary rejections.
🟦 Why a Business License Is Important
Every operating business in Malaysia must have a valid business license issued by its local council.
This license ensures your business complies with local regulations and safety standards.
Without one, you risk:
- Fines or legal penalties
- Business closure by enforcement
- Difficulty renewing your business registration
Whether you run a small retail shop or a large company, getting your business license Malaysia approved is essential for smooth operations.
🟦 DBKL Business License (Kuala Lumpur)
If your business operates within Kuala Lumpur, you must apply through Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL).
Common licenses include:
- Premise License
- Signboard License
- Advertisement License
DBKL also checks for compliance with Bomba fire safety, hygiene, and building approvals.
🟦 MBPJ Business License (Petaling Jaya)
For businesses in Petaling Jaya, applications are submitted to Majlis Bandaraya Petaling Jaya (MBPJ).
Typical requirements include:
- SSM registration
- Tenancy agreement or property ownership proof
- Floor plan or layout
- Photos of signage and premise
Applications can be made online through MBPJ’s licensing portal.
🟦 MBSA Business License (Shah Alam)
Majlis Bandaraya Shah Alam (MBSA) focuses heavily on compliance with building and safety guidelines.
Factory owners in Shah Alam will also need to apply for a factory license Malaysia under MBSA, which includes inspections by the Department of Environment (DOE) and Bomba.
🟦 MPSJ Business License (Subang Jaya)
For Subang Jaya, the local authority is Majlis Perbandaran Subang Jaya (MPSJ).
Common requirements include:
- Completed business license form
- Copy of tenancy agreement
- Premise photos
- SSM and identity documents
MPSJ also requires health and safety approval for food or F&B-related businesses.
🟦 Other Councils in Malaysia
If your business is located in areas like Johor Bahru, Penang, or Melaka, you’ll need to refer to their respective city councils such as:
- MBJB (Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru)
- MBPP (Majlis Bandaraya Pulau Pinang)
- MBMB (Majlis Bandaraya Melaka Bersejarah)
Each council has slightly different requirements, so checking their websites or working with a consultant can help speed up the process.
🟦 Simplify the Process with a License Service Provider
If you’re unsure about which documents are required, hiring a license runner Malaysia or consultant can help.
They’ll assist in preparing all the necessary forms, scheduling inspections, and submitting applications to the correct council.
At Camp Management, we specialize in business license Malaysia applications for all major city councils, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process.
Learn more about our detailed support for Factory License Malaysia or contact us via our homepage.
🟩 Final Thoughts
Different local councils in Malaysia may have unique business license requirements, but the core process remains similar — application, inspection, and approval.
By understanding your local authority’s process or working with professionals like Camp Management, you can save time and avoid mistakes in your business license Malaysia apply journey.