How to Choose and Register a Nama Syarikat in Malaysia for SSM Approval

Before starting a business in Malaysia, one of the first steps is choosing and registering a company name with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). This name will represent your business in legal documents, contracts, payroll, and branding. Picking the right name can save you from rejections, delays, and confusion later.

What is “Nama Syarikat”?

Before any business can operate legally in Malaysia, it must have a registered company name (nama syarikat) with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). This name represents your business identity. It will appear on all legal documents, contracts, tax filings, EPF/SOCSO registrations, and even marketing materials. A good name makes your business easier to identify and avoids complications during registration

Types of Business Entities & Name Rules

Different business structures in Malaysia come with their own rules for naming.

Enterprise (Sole Proprietor / Partnership)

More flexible. You can use your personal name (as in your NRIC), which doesn’t require approval, or propose a trade name, which SSM must approve first.

Sendirian Berhad (Sdn. Bhd.)

Stricter. Names must comply with SSM’s Companies Act naming guidelines. Words like “Bank,” “Royal,” or “Foundation” may require extra approval.

Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

Must include the suffix “PLT” at the end of the name.

How to Choose a Good Company Name

Picking a company name is both a compliance requirement and a branding decision. Here’s what to consider:

Be Unique and Distinctive

Avoid names that are too generic or that simply describe an activity (e.g., “Technology Resources”).

Easy to Spell and Pronounce

Customers should be able to remember and search your business easily.

Avoid Prohibited or Sensitive Words

Terms like “Royal,” “National,” “Bank,” “University,” or “Yayasan” are restricted unless you have written approval.

Reflect Your Business Nature

A clear, descriptive name helps customers know what you do.

Following these principles increases your chances of approval and builds stronger recognition with customers

Examples of Good Company Names (Likely to Get Approved)

To give you a clearer idea, here are names that typically pass SSM’s checks:

Descriptive and clear: “Barakah Mart Enterprise,” “Optima Tech Solutions Sdn. Bhd.”
Location + descriptor: “Ipoh Sweet & Candy Store,” “Teluk Intan Marketing.”
Positive and brandable: “Gemilang Ventures Sdn. Bhd.,” “Sejahtera Holdings Sdn. Bhd.”

These names are easy to understand, show the nature of the business, and follow SSM’s principles.

Examples of Bad Company Names (Likely to Get Rejected or Confusing)

Some names are either too risky or outright disallowed. Avoid names like:

Too generic: “Technology Resources,” “Trading Services.”
Artificially different: “Light & Easy Trading” vs “Light and Easy Trading.”
Restricted terms: “RoyalHotel,” “DanaRakyat Consultant,” “Bank Maju” without approval.
Misleading identity: A restaurant called “Karate Academy” (confuses business type).

Knowing these pitfalls saves time and prevents repeated reapplications.

How to Check Name Availability

Before registering, you should always confirm that your preferred name isn’t already taken:

Use SSM portals. Search via MyCoID 2016 (companies) or EzBiz (enterprises).
If your first choice is taken, consider variations that still reflect your brand identity. Note: minor changes like replacing “&” with “and” or using plural forms are not enough for approval.

Steps to Register Your Company Name

Registering a company name with SSM involves several stages:

Choose your entity type (Enterprise, Sdn. Bhd., LLP).
Search and reserve the name via the SSM portal.
Submit the application form (e.g., PNA42 for enterprises) with all required details.
Attach supporting documents if your name contains restricted words needing ministerial approval.
Pay the reservation fee.
Wait for approval (usually 1–3 working days).
Proceed with full registration once approved.

Fees & Reservation Validity

Registering a name comes with fees and time limits:

Fee: Around RM50 per name reservation (amounts may differ by entity type).
Validity: Reservation lasts 30 days and can be renewed.

Always check the latest SSM portal updates for the most accurate fee structures.

What to Do if the Name is Rejected

If your chosen name is not approved, don’t panic. Common rejection reasons include:

Similarity to an existing name.
Use of prohibited or controlled words.
Being too generic or misleading.

To fix this, review the rejection reason, adjust the name accordingly, or prepare a new alternative. Submitting 2–3 backup names is often a good strategy.

Employer & HR Note

From an HR perspective, accuracy matters. Always use your official registered name in:

Employment contracts and offer letters.
EPF/SOCSO forms.
Payroll and tax submissions.

Using unregistered trade names in formal documents can cause compliance problems during audits.

FAQs

Can I use my personal name for business?

Yes. A personal name (as per NRIC) is allowed for enterprises and doesn’t require prior approval.

Can I register an English + Malay mixed name?

Yes, if used properly to describe your business (e.g., “Padu Construction”).

Can I change my company name later?

Yes, but the same approval process and rules apply.

Can I use place names?

Yes, but place names must be followed by a descriptor (e.g., “Ipoh Sweet & Candy Store”).

Can I use symbols or numbers?

Yes, but only within SSM’s limits (e.g., “D&T Services,” “123 Maju Enterprise”).

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