Sarawak Business Registration Office Requirements

Roger Pay
Aug 14, 2025
4 min read

Sarawak Business Registration Office Requirements

Registering a business in Sarawak requires a physical registered office within the state. This is a key difference from Peninsular Malaysia, which is governed by a different set of laws. All companies and businesses in Sarawak must have a registered address to receive official correspondence and notices from regulatory authorities.

The process for registering a business in Sarawak is unique. Unlike in Peninsular Malaysia where the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) governs business registrations, businesses in Sarawak are governed by the Business Names Ordinance (Law of Sarawak Chapter 64) and the Business, Professionals and Trading Licensing Ordinance (Laws of Sarawak Chapter 33). This often involves dealing with the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) and local councils for different permits and licenses.

For a new business, you'll need to secure a suitable commercial location and provide proof of the address, such as a tenancy or a sales and purchase agreement. Some businesses may also use a virtual office as long as the address is classified as commercial.

It is also important to note that the requirements for a registered office can be stricter, and businesses are required to have a business stamp that features the full commercial address. For foreign-owned companies, there may be additional requirements, such as establishing a business office in Sarawak.

The main SSM office in Sarawak is located in Kuching. For more detailed information and the specific forms required, it is best to consult with a professional service provider or the relevant government agencies in Sarawak.

Fees Associated with a Registered Office in Sarawak

These fees can be broken down into several categories:

1. Renting a Physical Office

To have a "registered office" in Sarawak, you must have a physical commercial address. This is often the most significant cost.

Rental Fees: Commercial rental rates vary greatly depending on the location (e.g., Kuching, Miri, Sibu) and the size of the office. These are ongoing monthly costs.
Tenancy Agreement: You may incur fees for preparing the tenancy agreement.
Security Deposits: Landlords will typically require a security deposit and an advance payment for rent.

2. Virtual Office Services

If you do not require a full-time physical office, you can use a virtual office service. Bestar provides a registered commercial address for your business for a fee.

Annual/Monthly Fees: Bestar charges a fee, ranging from USD15 to USD75 per month, for a basic package that includes a registered address and mail handling. Additional services like call answering and meeting room access will cost extra.

How Bestar can Help

Sarawak Business Registration Office Requirements

Setting up a business, especially in a region with unique regulations like Sarawak, can be a complex and time-consuming process. Engaging a professional, such as Bestar, can provide significant advantages. Here’s a breakdown of how we can help:

1. Navigating Legal and Regulatory Differences

The primary role of Bestar is to guide you through Sarawak's distinct legal framework. Unlike in Peninsular Malaysia, where the Registration of Businesses Act 1956 and the Companies Act 2016 are the main authorities, Sarawak has its own set of laws, including the Business Names Ordinance (Law of Sarawak Chapter 64) and the Business, Professionals and Trading Licensing Ordinance.

Expertise in Local Laws: Bestar in Sarawak is well-versed in these local laws and can ensure your business complies with all state-specific requirements, including having a registered office and the proper business stamp.
Liaison with Government Bodies: We act as a crucial link between your company and various government agencies, such as the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) and local councils, which are responsible for business and trade licenses in Sarawak. This saves you from having to visit multiple government offices and navigate bureaucratic procedures.

2. Ensuring Full Compliance and Avoiding Penalties

The registration and ongoing compliance for a business involve numerous forms, deadlines, and specific documentation. Bestar helps ensure that all these requirements are met accurately and on time, thereby preventing fines and legal issues.

Documentation and Filings: We handle the preparation and submission of all necessary documents, such as the application for incorporation, annual returns, and financial statements. We also ensure that your statutory records, like the register of directors and shareholders, are up-to-date and accurate.
Advisory Role: A company secretary, for example, is a legal requirement for Sdn. Bhd. companies and acts as an advisor to the board of directors. We can provide guidance on corporate governance, legal obligations, and best practices.

3. Streamlining the Registration Process

The process of business registration can be lengthy and confusing, especially for those unfamiliar with the local system. Bestar can make the process smoother and more efficient.

Time and Effort Savings: By handling all the administrative tasks, from name searches to license applications, we allow you to focus on the core aspects of your business, such as strategy and operations.
Correct Procedures: We ensure that all steps, such as reserving a company name and submitting the correct forms to the right authorities, are done correctly the first time, preventing delays and the need for resubmission.

4. Comprehensive Support and Additional Services

Beyond the initial registration, Bestar offers a suite of services to support your business as it grows.

Virtual Office Services: For those who don't need a physical office space, Bestar can provide a registered commercial address, which is a legal requirement in Sarawak, along with mail-handling services.
Accounting and Taxation: Bestar offers accounting and tax advisory services, helping you manage your financial records, file taxes with the Inland Revenue Board, and ensure compliance with all tax-related regulations.
Specific Licenses and Permits: We can also assist with obtaining specific licenses and permits required for your industry, such as licenses for construction (UPKJ, CIDB) or other specialized trades.
Foreign Ownership and Immigration: For foreign investors, Bestar is invaluable in navigating the specific immigration laws of Sarawak, which are different from Peninsular Malaysia. We can assist with work permits, director passes, and other visa-related matters.

In summary, Bestar in Sarawak acts as a knowledgeable partner who simplifies a complex process, ensures legal compliance, and provides ongoing support, allowing you to establish and grow your business with confidence.

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