What are the responsibilities of a company secretary in Malaysia?
A company secretary in Malaysia plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with the Companies Act 2016. Their primary duties include maintaining statutory records, managing mandatory company filings, and ensuring the business adheres to regulatory requirements.Â
What are the annual compliance requirements for a company in Malaysia?
To remain compliant, companies must fulfil the following annual obligations:Â
- File Annual Returns with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM).Â
- Submit Audited Financial Statements.Â
- Convene an Annual General Meeting (AGM) if required. Â
Staying on top of these deadlines is essential to avoid penalties.Â
What is the Companies Act 2016, and how does it affect my business?
The Companies Act 2016 is the key legislation governing companies in Malaysia. It outlines regulations for company incorporation, compliance, and corporate governance practices. Non-compliance with this Act may result in significant fines or reputational risks.Â
What are the penalties for non-compliance with the Companies Act 2016?
Non-compliance can result in:Â
- Fines imposed by regulatory authorities. Â
- Legal Action, risking the business’s operations. Â
- Disqualification of Directors, which could impact leadership and governance.Â
Timely compliance is critical to safeguard your company.Â
How often must I file my company's financial statements?
Your company’s financial statements must be filed annually with the SSM (Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia)—a critical step in meeting regulatory requirements.Â
What is the role of the SSM (Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia)?
The SSM is Malaysia’s official regulatory body for companies and businesses. It is tasked with:Â
- Handling company registrations. Â
- Overseeing compliance with corporate laws. Â
- Enforcing regulatory actions to ensure good governance. Â
The SSM ensures a transparent business ecosystem in Malaysia.Â
What is a resolution, and when is it required?
A resolution is an official decision passed by a company’s Board of Directors or shareholders. Resolutions are typically required for significant corporate actions, such as:Â
- Approving capital changes. Â
- Appointing directors or auditors. Â
- Undertaking significant investments or transactions.Â
Resolutions are part of formalising critical business decisions.Â
By ensuring you meet all compliance obligations, your business can operate smoothly and minimise the risk of penalties. For expert guidance, please contact our Business Support team of compliance professionals today.Â