F&B License Application & Renewal Services
For local and foreign owned restaurants, cafes, kiosks and other food ventures
We handle all preparation, submissions, and renewals with SSM, MOH, Local Councils, KPDNKK, music licensing bodies and more so you can start operating as soon as possible.
Our Services
We provide end-to-end licensing support for businesses looking to set up F&B operations in Malaysia, including:
- Premise & signboard composite license
- MOH FoSIM Health Certificate
- Food Handling Certificate
- Alcohol licenses
- Entertainment licenses
- Music licenses
- HALAL certification
- WRT license
- Petak khas reservation
For those without a Malaysian business entity, we also help incorporate a Sdn Bhd and register an SSM Enterprise.
- Composite
- MOH
- Food Handling
- Alcohol
- Music
- Halal
- Parking
COMPOSITE PREMISE & SIGNBOARD LICENSE
Issued by: Local City Council (PBT)
This license allows a business to use a premise for F&B activities and display a signboard to advertise itself, making it essential for almost every F&B operation. Each Local Council has their own specific rules and fees, but all revolve around ensuring health and safety standards.
MOH FoSIM HEATH CERTIFICATE
Issued by: Ministry of Health
This license requires your premises to pass a physical inspection by MOH officers to confirm it meets government health and safety standards for food preparation and serving.
Food Handling
Issued by: Ministry of Health via accredited trainers
All food handlers including waiters, chefs, and other staff members must attend a certified food handling course and obtain typhoid vaccination. It can be delivered both online and in person but must be by a HRDC-certified food handling training provider.
ALCOHOL LICENSES
Issued by: Malaysian Police / Local Authority
For restaurants that intend to sell alcoholic beverages. It is issued by the Local Council and requires coordinating with the local Police Department to obtain a letter of permission. There are two main types of alcohol licenses for restaurants:
Retail alcohol license for sale of alcoholic beverages to be taken home
Public house license for sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption
MUSIC LICENSES
Issued by: Multiple regulatory bodies
These licences cover different rights holders and are mandatory for any public or live playback of copyrighted music. It is regulated by three bodies each representing a different stakeholder:
- Recording Performers Malaysia Berhad collects for recording performers
- Public Performance Malaysia collects for sound recording owners (record labels)
- Music Authors’ Copyright Protection collects for songwriters and music publishers
Fees are tailored to the premise and differ based on floor size, facilities available, number of seats, and more.
HALAL CERTIFICATEE
Issued by: Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM)
This license certifies that every aspect of an F&B’s operations from logistics to ingredients and processes comply with Islamic dietary laws and requires implementing a Halal Management System (HMS) that passes strict inspection by JAKIM authorities.
There are two levels of HMS based on annual revenue:
- Internal Control Halal System for businesses with annual revenue < RM500,000
- Halal Assurance System for businesses with annual revenue RM500,000 and up
Each has their own requirements and for details, see our guide to Halal certificates for restaurants.
PETAK KHAS RESERVATION
Issued by: Local Council
Allows restaurants to legally block a certain number of public parking spaces for their use (e.g. for customers or valet use) during business hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements to open a restaurant in Malaysia?
You generally need:
- A business entity registered with SSM
- Premise and signboard licenses
- Food handling certification
- Additional licenses depending on the concept, such as halal, alcohol, or music licenses
Do I need to register a company before applying for licenses?
Yes. You must first register a business with Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM) before applying for restaurant licenses.
How long does it take to open a restaurant in Malaysia?
The complete process commonly takes six to seven months:
- Company registration: Approximately three to five days
- Licensing: Approximately one to two months
- Renovation, recruitment, and setup: Several months
How much do restaurant licenses cost in Malaysia?
Licensing generally costs below RM10,000 for a locally owned restaurant. A foreign-owned operation may cost slightly more than RM10,000 due to its WRT license requirements.
Can foreigners open a restaurant in Malaysia?
Yes, but the business generally must:
- Operate through an LLP or Sdn Bhd
- Obtain a WRT license
- Maintain at least RM1,000,000 in paid-up capital
Can I apply for multiple licenses at the same time?
Generally, yes. Most licenses issued by the relevant Local Authority can be applied for concurrently.
What is a Local Authority (PBT)?
A Local Authority, such as DBKL or MBSJ, is responsible for approvals including:
- Premise licenses
- Signboard licenses
- Alcohol permits
- Parking approvals
Do I need a license for a restaurant car park?
If you require a dedicated parking area, approval and an inspection from the relevant Local Authority are generally required.
What is a WRT license and who needs it?
The Wholesale, Retail and Trade (WRT) license is generally required for a business with more than 50% foreign ownership.
Do I need a license to play music in my restaurant?
Yes. Depending on how the music is used, licenses may be required from:
- Recording Performers Malaysia Berhad
- Public Performance Malaysia
- Music Authors’ Copyright Protection Berhad
Do I need a separate license for live music or karaoke?
Yes. Live performances and karaoke generally require an additional Public Performance License.
What music can I play without a license?
You may generally play royalty-free music without obtaining a music license.
Do I need a Halal certificate for my restaurant?
A Halal certificate is not compulsory for every restaurant, but it is important if you intend to serve and market your restaurant to Muslim customers.
Do I need a license to serve alcohol?
Yes. Depending on how alcohol is sold, you may require:
- Public House License: For alcohol consumed on the premises
- Retail License: For takeaway alcohol sales
These licenses are issued by the relevant Local Authority.
Is food handling certification mandatory?
Yes. Food handling certification is mandatory for the relevant personnel working in a food and beverage establishment.
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© 2026 Bondsgate Consulting Sdn. Bhd. All Rights Reserved.
© 2026 Bondsgate Consulting Sdn. Bhd.
All Rights Reserved.