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ARTICLE · 08 APRIL 2026

Setting Up A Business In Malaysia

When establishing a business presence in a new jurisdiction, it is crucial to choose the right entity form. The entity forms most commonly used by foreign investors are...

MalaysiaCorporate/Commercial Law

A. Entity form

When establishing a business presence in a new jurisdiction, it is crucial to choose the right entity form. The entity forms most commonly used by foreign investors are: the representative office or the regional office;

  • the branch office;
  • the Sendirian Berhad ("Sdn. Bhd."), a company with limited liability; and
  • the Limited Liability Partnership ("LLP").

I. The representative/regional office

The simplest way for foreign entities to establish a business presence in Malaysia is the registration of a representative or regional office. The entity form serves only as a transitional structure and cannot be used for any commercial activities.

1. What is a representative/regional office?

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