Business As Traders Companies in Malaysia

Businesses in Malaysia are generally operated as either sole proprietorships or partnerships. Companies may be incorporated in Malaysia under the Companies Act 1965 as either private or public companies. A private company is one which:

-Has a maximum of 50 members
-Restricts the right to transfer shares
-Prohibits any invitation to the public to subscribe for shares or debentures
-Is not a subsidiary of a public company

A public company is one which:

-Has a minimum of 7 members
-Is not restricted as to the transfer of shares
-May invite the public to subscribe for shares or debentures
-Is a subsidiary of a public company

The most common form of business entity in Malaysia is the sole proprietorship, which is easy to establish and offers complete control to the owner. Partnerships are also popular, as they offer more flexibility than companies in terms of ownership and management.

There are a number of tax incentives and benefits available to businesses in Malaysia, which include:

-Pioneer status, which provides a tax exemption of up to 100% for a period of 5 to 10 years
-Investment tax allowance, which allows a deduction of up to 100% of qualifying