Business licenses are your Good Friend
The implementation of business licenses and permits has always benefited business owners in some way or another. Especially in Malaysia, business start-ups are well encouraged and the government bodies are ready to guide and support aspiring entrepreneurs to kickstart their business journey provided your register under the Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM).
We all know that the bottom line of starting a business, especially a food business is to reach out to a maximum number of like-minded people whose interests are the same and make a profit out of adding values. However, we got to approach it in the right way. With that said, you must be aware that mistakes and human errors are inevitable and they show up with no symptoms sometimes.
You sure don’t want to risk lives, do you?
Which brings to the ultimate reason to run, especially your food business lawfully.
So, what do I need to do now?
What business licenses are needed to start a food business?
SSM
Get yourself to the nearest SSM office and register your business with a fee of RM60 at the counter. Also, remember to bring along lists of your business names so you can pick the most appropriate one for your business.
On top of that, you will need to identify your business structure. Choosing the right one is very crucial because they have different implications for the business. If you are running the business on your own, then you can head with Proprietorship or if you have business partners, you can opt to either PLT/LLP or Partnership.
Alcohol Business Licenses
There are several alcohol licenses that are available in Malaysia which you can choose depending on your business nature. If you were to open a business premise for real sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption within premises, you can opt for Public House License.
If the business sale has the sole purpose of customer consumption of alcohol within the business premise, apply for the Beer House License. Consumption outside of premise will require Retail Shop License and wholesale liquor require Wholesale Dealer’s License. From the details given, you can now identify the type of alcohol license you will require.
Business Premise Licenses
If there is a need for a physical commercial premise for your business, apply for a Business Premise License at the nearest State Authority.
How do I know if I need to have a commercial premise? Consider the size and nature of your food business. If you can run your business from home, you need not think of this hassle.
Signboard License
When you have a commercial premise to run your food business, the signboard is crucial, especially for branding purposes. Also, having a signboard for your business needs to follow the given rules and regulations set by the government. Hence, you will need a signboard license to run your business in a rightful manner and with no unnecessary problems.
Signboard and Premise license is needed for all types of businesses in Malaysia for as long as your business needs a commercial premise. The signboard is the nameplate of a business and is called an identity card.
| BUSINESS FORMAT | SIGNBOARD LICENSE | PREMISE LICENSE |
| PROPRIETORSHIP | YES | YES |
| PARTNERSHIP | YES | YES |
| PRIVATE LIMITED | YES | YES |
| PUBLIC LIMITED | YES | YES |
Income Tax Business Licenses
You can easily register your business for income tax in a few hassle-free steps. It protects and benefits you, your business and your employees in the long term. You need not head to the Lembaga Hasil Dalam Negeri office to register.
Work easier with eDaftar as you can put in your application online for income tax file, provide supporting documents according to the requirements and receive the reference number within three (3) working days. This is similar for employee income tax applications too.
What is a Food Safety Supervisor?
There is so much more to food business licensing if you did not know. The reason being, every license plays a role in impacting your consumers at different levels. For instance, being certified by MeSTI in Malaysia, your food product is considered trustable and you can expand your business throughout Malaysia.
You go a level higher when later you get certified from HALAL by Jakim. You will be able to penetrate your food business into countries that accept HALAL certified products.
So, in order for your Ready-To-Eat food business to grow bigger, you need to ensure that your business foundation and method of running your business is on the right track. And, for that to happen you will need a Food Safety Supervisor. Especially when it comes to checking on your production process.
What is the role of a Food Safety Supervisor?
- Being aware of all relevant food safety application to food businesses.
- Monitor all food handlers to make sure the food handling process is done properly abiding the rules and regulations.
- Recognise, prevent and alleviate food safety hazards in the food business.
- Ensure pest control is implemented periodically.
- Ensure food handlers maintain safe personal hygiene.
- Ensure wearing of anti slip safety shoes when handling food in commercial kitchen to prevent potential injuiries.
- Ensure your business’s food safety programme is updated and accurately maintained.
- Complete required training and hold necessary certifications.
Take Note of the Food Business Licenses in Malaysia
Just a humble reminder to not overlook other general licenses, and the sector-specific as well as activity-specific licenses. Because they play different important roles in keeping your business safe for consumers. Even if you happen to oversee certain aspects. This is especially when your business is expanding into a bigger scale. Otherwise, the mentioned above are all that you need.
Need Help with Food Compliance in Malaysia?
Foodipedia helps food manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, and startup food businesses navigate food labelling requirements, nutrition facts analysis, food import compliance, and product registration requirements in Malaysia.
Get practical advice tailored to your product and business.
Wonder how to maintain a home based food business in Malaysia?
This video is your go-to resource! Whether you’re starting from scratch or already have a home-based food business, this video is a must-watch for anyone aspiring to thrive in the Malaysian food industry. Discover essential tips and strategies for running your business efficiently, from obtaining permits to ensuring food safety. Don’t miss out on the valuable insights and practical advice shared in this video.
Frequently Asked Questions
What licenses do I need to start a food business in Malaysia?
The licenses required depend on your type of food business. For home-based food sellers, you typically need a local council (PBT) business licence and a Certificate of Compliance (OKU or health clearance). For physical F&B premises, you need a Sijil Perakuan Pemeriksaan (health inspection certificate), a business licence, a food handler certificate, and potentially a signboard licence. Food manufacturers need GMP certification and product registration with KKM.
Do I need a licence to sell food from home in Malaysia?
Yes. Even for home-based food businesses, you are legally required to register with your local council (Majlis Perbandaran or Majlis Daerah) and obtain a home business licence. Your food products must also comply with food labelling requirements under the Food Regulations 1985. Selling food without a licence, even online, is illegal and can result in fines.
What is the difference between a food business licence and a food manufacturing licence in Malaysia?
A food business licence (issued by local councils) permits you to operate a premises that prepares, handles, or sells food. A food manufacturing or production licence (overseen by the Ministry of Health/KPDNHEP) is required when you produce packaged food products for commercial distribution. Manufacturers may also need to register their products with KKM and obtain GMP or HACCP certification.
Is Halal certification a licence or a voluntary certification?
Halal certification from JAKIM or State Islamic Religious Councils is voluntary in Malaysia — it is not legally required. However, it is commercially essential for reaching Muslim consumers, supplying to retail chains, and exporting to Muslim-majority countries. Many buyers and distributors will only work with Halal-certified suppliers.
How long does it take to get a food business licence in Malaysia?
A basic food business licence from your local council typically takes 1–4 weeks if your application is complete and your premises pass inspection. More complex certifications like GMP, HACCP, or KKM product registration can take 3–12 months depending on your product type and facility readiness.
Do I need a food handler certificate in Malaysia?
Yes. Any person who handles food in a commercial food business — including home-based food businesses — is required by law to obtain a Food Handler Certificate (Sijil Pengendali Makanan). This certificate is obtained by completing an approved food hygiene course and is valid for 5 years. You can register through KPDNHEP or authorised training providers.
DISCLAIMER
This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Although we strive to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for any kind of professional advice, and you should not rely solely on this information. Please opt for a one-to-one consultation with us or a relevant professional for your specific concerns regarding food business solutions in Malaysia before making any decisions.
