Whether you are looking to verify the legitimacy of a company, conduct due diligence before entering into a business transaction, or ensure regulatory compliance, checking the company registration number is a crucial step.
A company registration number (CRN) is a unique identifier assigned by the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) at the time of registering the company. It is used to identify the company in all official documentation, correspondence, and dealings with the government and other businesses.
If you are an entrepreneur who is wondering how to check A company registration number in Malaysia, then you should know that in recent years, the process to check company registration number in Malaysia has become more accessible and convenient, due to SSM’s e-Info portal. This portal allows users to search for information on companies registered in Malaysia, including their business registration numbers, names, dates of incorporation, and other relevant details.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to check company registration number in Malaysia, including the steps involved, the information that can be obtained, and the limitations and considerations to keep in mind.
What is a Company Registration Number in Malaysia?
In Malaysia, every organisation or firm should be enlisted with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) before commencing business activities. During the Malaysia company registration number process, the SSM will assign a unique CRN to the company, which serves as its identification number.
The CRN is used to identify the company in all official documentation, correspondence, and dealings with the government and other businesses. Earlier, the SSM provided businesses with 1 7-digit company registration number. However, as of October 2019, SSM began providing a 12-digit company registration number in an effort to simplify the process.
The following is an illustration of a pre-existing and new company registration number:
- Previous CRN: SDN BHD 1234567-X
- New CRN: SDN BHD 202401000005
The new format follows the following breakdown to derive the 12 digits:
To determine the 12 digits, the new format uses the breakdown given below:
- The year in which the company has been registered (for example, 2024) is represented by the first four numbers.
- The next two numbers, for example, 01, indicate the kind of commercial activity.
- The unique entity number is represented by the final six digits (e.g. 234565)
The CRN is an essential component of a company’s legal identity in Malaysia, and it is used for various purposes, such as opening a bank account, filing tax returns, and applying for business licences and permits.
Process to Check A Company Registration Number in Malaysia
The process to check a company registration number in Malaysia is a relatively simple that can be done online through the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) website.
Here are the detailed steps to check the company registration number in Malaysia:
Step 1: –One of the first steps to check a company registration number in Malaysia is to visit the SSM e-Info portal at https://www.ssm-einfo.my/.
Step 2: – Click on the “Login” button at the top right corner of the page to log in with your registered account. Please click on the “Register” button if you don’t already own an account.
Step 3: – Once logged in, click on the “Business Info” tab on the main menu, and then select “Business Registration No.” from the drop-down list.
Step 4: – Enter the company registration number you want to check in the search box provided, and then click on the “Search” button.
Step 5: – The search results will display the company’s name, registration number, date of incorporation, status, and other relevant information. If you pay a fee, you can easily access the company’s business profile.
It is important to note that not all companies registered in Malaysia may be listed on the SSM e-Info portal. Some companies may keep their information private, and their details may not be publicly available.
How Can the Existing Companies in Malaysia Change Their Business Registration Number?
In Malaysia, companies are assigned a unique business registration number (BRN) by the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) at the time of registration. The BRN is used to identify the company in all official documentation, correspondence, and dealings with the government and other businesses.
Once a BRN is assigned, it cannot be changed. However, there are instances where a company may need to change its BRN due to a change in its legal structure or ownership, or other significant changes in its business operations. In such cases, the company may be required to register as a new entity with the SSM, and a new BRN will be assigned.
Here are the steps that existing companies in Malaysia can take if they need to change their business registration number:
Register as a new entity
If a company undergoes a significant change in its legal structure or ownership, such as converting from a sole proprietorship to a private limited company, it may be required to register as a new entity with the SSM. This would involve applying for a new business registration number and re-registering the company’s details with the SSM.
Apply for a name change
If a company wishes to change its name, it can apply for a name change with the SSM. The company will be required to submit the necessary documents and pay the prescribed fees to affect the name change. The new name will be reflected in the company’s business profile, but the business registration number will remain the same.
Register a new business activity
If a company wishes to expand its business operations into a new area, it can register a new business activity with the SSM. The company will be assigned a new business activity code, but the business registration number will remain the same.
Things to Know When Searching for Malaysia Company Registration Number
When searching for a Malaysia company registration number, there are a few things that you should know to ensure that you obtain accurate and reliable information.
In order to check company registration number in Malaysia, the following points need to be kept in mind:
Use the SSM e-Info Portal
The Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) has an official online portal called SSM e-Info that allows users to search for business registration information. It is important to use this portal when searching for CRNs, as it provides accurate and up-to-date information.
Know the company name
When searching for a CRN, it is essential to know the exact name of the company. It might assure that you are obtaining accurate results. If you are unsure of the company name, you can use other details such as the company’s address or directors’ names to narrow down your search.
Understand the limitations
While the SSM e-Info portal provides access to a vast database of registered companies in Malaysia, it is important to note that not all companies may be listed. Some companies may keep their information private, and their details may not be publicly available.
Verify the information
Once you have obtained the CRN for a company, it is important to verify the information before using it for any official purposes. It is feasible via cross-reviewing the data with other bases, like the company’s website or other official documents.
If you have any doubts or concerns about the CRN or any other company registration information, it is advisable to seek professional advice from a lawyer, accountant, or qualified professional from Odint Consulting.
By keeping these key points in mind, you can ensure that you obtain accurate and reliable information when searching for company registration numbers in Malaysia.
Conclusion
Well, checking a company registration number in Malaysia is an important task that can provide valuable information for individuals, businesses, and government agencies. At the beginning of the SSM e-Info portal, the process to check company registration numbers has evolved to be much more affordable and suitable than earlier. Overall, the ability to check company registration number in Malaysia provides transparency and accountability in the business environment and helps to promote a level playing field for all market participants.
It is best advised to consult with a professional expert from OnDemand International to help you understand the importance of a company registration number in Malaysia. Contact us today.
FAQs
What is a company registration number (CRN) in Malaysia?
A company registration number (CRN) is a unique identifier assigned by the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) to registered companies.
Why is it important to check a company registration number in Malaysia?
Checking a company registration number can help to verify the legitimacy of a company before entering into any business dealings or transactions. It will help you in giving a piece of helpful reports about the company’s history, ownership structure, and financial status.
How can I check a company registration number in Malaysia?
You can check a company registration number in Malaysia by using the SSM e-Info portal. Simply enter the company name or registration number into the search bar and the relevant information will be displayed.
What information can I obtain by checking a company registration number in Malaysia?
By checking a company registration number in Malaysia, you can obtain information such as the company name, registration number, date of incorporation, registered address, and details of directors and shareholders.