# Do I legally need to register my business at all? — RCS
URL: https://robocompanysecretary.com/answers/must-i-register-my-business/

## Do I legally need to register my business at all?

Last updated: 14 October 2026 Answer from Robo Company Secretary How we write answers

Yes — carrying on business in Malaysia without registering is an offence. Sole proprietors and partnerships register under the Registration of Businesses Act 1956 (fines up to RM50,000 and/or up to two years' imprisonment for non-registration); companies incorporate under the Companies Act 2016. Registration also unlocks business banking and platform onboarding.

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Sources: Registration of Businesses Act 1956 Companies Act 2016

Also asked as: do I need to register my business; selling online need ssm; kena daftar ssm ke; freelancer must register; is it illegal to not register business malaysia.

For online sellers the practical trigger is usually a payment gateway or marketplace asking for your SSM certificate. Whether the right registration is a cheap enterprise or a Sdn Bhd depends on scale and risk — we'll tell you honestly, including if the answer is 'enterprise first'.

### Key facts

- ROBA 1956: non-registration penalties up to RM50k / 2 years
- Companies: CA2016

Call +60 10-383 5988 (a licensed secretary replies within one working hour (Mon–Fri 8:30am–5:30pm MYT; outside hours, first thing next working day)) or walk in at J-3A-15, Solaris Mont Kiara.

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### Related questions

- Sole proprietorship or Sdn Bhd — what's the difference?
- What structure does an online / Shopee / TikTok seller need?
- Should a freelancer incorporate a Sdn Bhd?

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