How to Amend Company Name
- Chow Ping
- Nov 11
- 4 min read
Ever felt like your company name doesn't quite fit anymore?
While it once seemed like a good idea to name your business after your ex-girlfriend, you’re starting to wonder if it was a bad idea. Just like those matching tattoos.
Whatever your reason, amending your company name in Malaysia isn't as simple as just deciding on a new one. There's a whole process involved.
And if you get it wrong, prepare for delays, rejected applications, and wasted money.
Don't worry though — we've got you covered with this step-by-step guide.
What You Need to Know Before You Amend Company Name
First things first: in Malaysia, company name changes are governed by the Companies Act 2016 and overseen by the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM).
This isn't something you can DIY over a weekend.
You'll need your company secretary involved, as they're the only ones who can legally file the application. (No company secretary yet? That's a problem you need to fix first.)
Before you jump into the process, ask yourself:
Is this name change truly necessary?
Will your customers recognise you under the new name?
Have you budgeted for all the costs involved (not just application fees, but rebranding expenses too)?
Remember, changing your company name is like changing your identity. Your customers, suppliers, and partners know you by your current name. A change means they'll need to learn to recognize you all over again.
The Step-by-Step Process to Change Your Company Name
Step 1: Check If Your New Name Is Available
Your first task is ensuring nobody else has already claimed your brilliant new name idea.
Your company secretary needs to submit your proposed name through SSM's online system. This costs RM50 — think of it as a "reservation fee" to hold your spot in line.
If your name gets approved (which takes 1-3 working days), SSM will reserve it for 30 days.
That's your window to complete the next steps, so don't procrastinate!
Remember: SSM has strict naming guidelines. Your name will be rejected if it:
Contains prohibited words (like "Bank", "Royal", or "Trust")
Is identical or too similar to an existing company
Includes more than five permitted symbols
Is deemed offensive or misleading
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Once your name is approved and reserved, you have 30 days to submit these documents to SSM:
A copy of the name availability application and reservation
The email notification showing SSM's approval of the reserved name
The formal application for the name change under Section 28(1) of the Companies Act 2016
A copy of the special resolution approving the name change
This step comes with another fee: RM100.
The special resolution is critical here. According to the Companies Act 2016, this can be signed by your Board of Directors.
However, if your company has a constitution, you might need to hold an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) in accordance with your company's Memorandum and Articles of Association.
Don't skip this step or take shortcuts. If your paperwork isn't proper, SSM can and will reject your application. (Not ideal!)
Step 3: Get Verification
If you've followed all procedures correctly and submitted complete documentation, SSM will issue a notification of name change within one working day.
You can also request a Certificate of Change of Name for an additional fee. This certificate is your official proof that you've legally changed your company's name.
Once your new name is approved, you must display BOTH your old and new names on all company-related documents for the next 12 months.
Yes, for a whole year.
This requirement helps prevent confusion among customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders who knew you by your previous name.
Have a question about changing your company name? Drop us a text 👇
Post-Name Change Tasks You Can't Afford to Skip
Congratulations! Your company name is officially changed. But you're not done yet.
After your name change is approved, your company secretary should provide you with:
Documentation of the application under Section 27(1)(4)
The reservation for availability of names
The application for name change under Section 28
SSM's letter of approval confirming the successful change
Your updated company profile showing both the new and previous names
These documents are essential for the next phase: updating your company information with various authorities.
Essential Updates After Your Name Change
1. Banking Updates
Visit your bank with your Certificate of Change of Name. They'll update their system with your new company name.
Do this ASAP or you might run into issues with incoming payments or checks made out to your new company name.
2. Statutory Body Notifications
You must update your information with:
Employees Provident Fund (EPF) - Update your profile online through their official website
Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) - Similar process, through their official portal
Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) - Update your tax profile online
Neglect these updates and you risk compliance issues. LHDN especially isn't known for their forgiveness when it comes to administrative oversights.
3. Business Licenses and Permits
Any business licenses, permits, or industry-specific registrations must be updated with your new name.
This includes:
Business premise licenses
Industry-specific permits (CIDB for construction, for example)
Import/export licenses
Any other operational licenses
4. Digital Presence
Don't forget to update:
Your website domain (if needed)
Email addresses
Social media profiles
Business listings
Google Business Profile
Is Changing Your Company Name Worth It?
A company name change can be a powerful move for rebranding, avoiding legal issues, or better reflecting your evolved business.
But it's not a decision to take lightly.
The process is manageable if you approach it methodically and ensure every step is completed properly. The key is preparation, proper documentation, and follow-through on all the post-approval updates.
Remember, your company secretary plays a crucial role in this process — they're the only ones authorized to submit the application to SSM. Make sure they're experienced with name changes to avoid unnecessary complications.
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