Form PNA.42: How to Reserve Your Company Name with SSM

Choosing the right company name is one of the first big decisions when starting a business.

But did you know that in Malaysia, you need to reserve your chosen name before you officially register your company?

If you’re planning to set up a new company or rebrand an existing one, here’s everything you need to know about using Form PNA.42.

What is Form PNA.42?

Form PNA.42 is a document issued by the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) used for business name reservation.

Its main purpose is to let businesses submit a request to secure a proposed company name before completing the full registration process.

Both individuals planning to start a sole proprietorship and partners in a partnership can use Form PNA.42.

It is particularly important for entrepreneurs planning to register a Sdn Bhd (private limited company) or a Berhad (public limited company), where the business name must be unique.

Why Businesses Need to Submit Form PNA.42

Imagine spending days crafting the perfect name for your company, only to find out someone else has already taken it.

Submitting Form PNA.42 protects you from this disappointment by reserving your preferred name early.

Besides securing the name, submitting this form also:

Prevents others from registering the same or a similar name.
Gives you time to prepare incorporation documents without rushing.
Helps avoid costly branding changes if you later find the name unavailable.

When to Use Form PNA.42

You should use Form PNA.42:

Before registering a company with SSM: Whether it’s for a new business or a new brand under your existing business, reserving the name early gives peace of mind.
When rebranding: If your company is planning a name change, you must reserve the new name before making updates in the SSM system.

It’s important to note that once your business name is approved, it will be reserved for 30 days. During this period, no one else can register using your reserved name.

How to Fill and Submit Form PNA.42

Filling out Form PNA.42 is simple if you follow these steps carefully:

1. Prepare Three Name Options

You can submit up to three proposed names in order of priority. This way, if your first choice is rejected, SSM can automatically consider the second or third option.

2. Fill in the Details

Write your full name, NRIC/Passport number, and contact number. Then, choose names that reflect the type of business you are running.

If you are using a made-up word, abbreviation, or a language other than Bahasa Malaysia or English, explain the meaning and attach supporting documents if needed.

3. Submit the Form

Submit the completed Form PNA.42 together with Form A (Business Registration Form) through the MyCoID 2016 portal (https://mycoid2016.ssm.com.my).

4. Payment

The fee is RM50 per name reservation, payable online at the time of submission.

Free Download PNA.42 Form PDF

Free download Form PNA.42 here

Processing Time & Validity

After submission, SSM usually takes about 1-3 working days to review and approve the name application.

Once your name is approved:

The name is reserved for 30 days.
During this time, you must complete the full company registration.
The reserved name cannot be transferred to another owner, changed, or extended unless special approval is given.

If you fail to use the name within 30 days, the reservation will expire, and you will need to submit a new application and pay again.

What to Do After Name Approval

After you receive approval for your business name:

Proceed with preparing all necessary documents for company registration, including the company's constitution, statutory declarations, and director/shareholder information.
Submit the full company incorporation application through MyCoID within the 30-day reservation window.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many name reservation applications get delayed or rejected because of small mistakes. Here are common issues to watch out for:

Using prohibited or sensitive words: Names involving words like "Royal," "Government," or "Bank" usually need extra permissions and can slow down approval.
Submitting incomplete forms: Missing explanations for made-up names or not signing the form can result in rejection.
Choosing names that are too similar to existing businesses: SSM will reject names that sound alike to avoid public confusion.
Not aligning the business activity with the name: The proposed name must match the type of business you are planning to run.

So, to avoid these mistakes, take time to double-check your form and name choices can save you a lot of hassle.

FAQs for Employers & Recruiters

Can I use Form PNA.42 to reserve a name for a recruitment agency?

Yes. As long as the business type matches the name, you can reserve any industry name, including recruitment and staffing services.

How long is the reserved name valid?

The reserved name is valid for 30 days after approval.

Can I extend the name reservation?

No automatic extension is given. You will have to reapply and repay if you miss the 30-day window.

What if my proposed name is rejected?

If your first choice is rejected, SSM will check your second or third options. If all are rejected, you will need to submit a fresh application.

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