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Sohaib Ikram
Sohaib Ikram serves as the Director of Emerhub in Malaysia.
In Malaysia, a signboard license is obtained once you have successfully registered your business with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). The license application is typically submitted with premise licenses, submitted to and in compliance with local councils.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of key design guidelines, the application process, and requirements for you to obtain a signboard license in Malaysia for your business.
Overview of Signboard License in Malaysia
The Signboard License in Malaysia (Lesen Papan Tanda) is a mandatory permit for businesses that want to display signage on or near their premises. The main purpose of this license is to regulate the placement, size, and content of business signboards to ensure public safety and aesthetic consistency.
Applications for signboard license are submitted to the local council, known as ‘Majlis,’ who governs the area of your business and enforces specific regulations for your signboards.
These local authorities fall into three categories:
- Majlis Bandaraya (City Council)
- Majlis Perbandaran (Municipal Council)
- Majlis Daerah (District Council)
Types of Signboards Required for Businesses in Malaysia
Businesses can use various types of signboards in Malaysia, each requiring separate licenses with varying requirements and costs based on the type and size of the signages.
Here are some types of signboards recognized in Malaysia:
| Types of Signboard | Description | Common Usages |
| Facade Signboards | Mounted flat against the front or side of a building. | Business names, logos on storefronts. |
| Projecting Signboards | Extends perpendicularly from a building wall. | Visibility from side angles especially on upper floors. |
| Freestanding Signboards | Self-supporting structures not attached to buildings. | Outdoor advertising and directional signs. |
| Roof-mounted Signboards | Installed on top of building roofs. | Large scale advertising, information displays. |
| Lightbox Signboards | Internally illuminated sign cabinets. | 24-hour visibility for businesses. |
| Digital Signboards | Electronic displays with changeable content. | Dynamic advertising, informational displays like menu, and other business information. |
Design Guidelines for Signboards in Malaysia
Designing a signboard that complies with Malaysian regulations involves adhering to specific language, content, and physical specifications outlined by the respective ‘Majlis.’
Note that requirements may vary depending on your business location in Malaysia and it’s advisable to consult with experts such as Emerhub to ensure compliance with local rules and regulations.
Below are the general guidelines that local councils consider when reviewing signboard applications.
A. Language and Content Requirements
- Bahasa Malaysia Prominence:
- Malaysia has strict regulations on the use of language in public signboards. Bahasa Malaysia (the Malay language) must be the primary language used and any other languages used must appear secondary to it.
- Bahasa Melayu texts must be 30% larger than texts in other languages.
- Foreign owned companies with SSM-registered English names do not need to translate the name to the local language.
- Mandatory Information:
- The business name, logo, activity, registration number (SSM number), and current contact information must be displayed or stated clearly.
- The content of the signboard must reflect the nature of business.
- Exemptions for Registered Trademarks:
- Internationally recognized trademarks or brand names like TOSHIBA or SAMSUNG do not require Bahasa Malaysia translations.
- All logos and trademarks must be registered with MyIPO (Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia).
B. Physical Specifications and Visual Elements
Signboard dimensions, projection, and lighting are also regulated to ensure aesthetic harmony and public safety. They generally follow the below requirements:
1. Size Limits and Placing:
- Vary depending on location and type of signboard. Facade signboards, for example, must not exceed the width of the premises and the height of 4 feet (1.22m).
- Must be placed in designated areas on the building structure, such as beams allocated for signages.
- Must not obstruct windows, mirrors, or building facades to ensure safety and aesthetic regulations.
2. Projection and Lighting Regulations:
- Projecting signboards are typically permitted on the second floor and above of a business premise. The minimum clearance from the ground level is 2.6 meters (approximately 8.5 feet) to ensure pedestrian and vehicular safety.
- Lighting must not cause glare or disturbances to drivers and pedestrians. As such, the materials used must also not reflect light and cause distractions to road users.
Despite these guidelines, there are still discrepancies in signboards around Malaysia. These occur because of reasons like variations of governing regulations and special permission from local authorities. Emerhub advisors can provide you a breakdown of these nuances and ensure your signages meet all requirements, from language and content, to signage dimensions, in compliance with local regulations.
Circumstances of Non-Compliant Designs on Signboards
Businesses that fail to comply with local signboard regulations may face penalties such as fines up to RM 30,000 , signboard removal, or delays in approval processes.
Some common issues of non-compliance:
- Lack of Bahasa Malaysia prominence.
- Oversized signages or improper placements on buildings.
- Use of prohibited content such as offensive imagery or language.
- Temporary structures or banners replacing permanent signages.
The Application Process for Signboard License in Malaysia
The process of obtaining a signboard license in Malaysia involves submitting design mockups, photographs of proposed locations, other supporting documents and fees to the respective local council.
Emerhub specialists can manage the application process for you from the get-go, ensuring compliance for all necessary aspects.
Here is a complete list of documents required to apply for the signboard license in Malaysia:
- Business registration details.
- Preparation of completed application forms.
- Signboard design specifications like design mockups and technical drawings.
- Photographs of proposed installation locations.
- Any other relevant documents or special processes required by the local authorities.
The fees and payments processes may also differ according to your signboard types, size and dimensions, as well as where in Malaysia (or Malaysian states) your business operates in.
Generally the application fees tend to range from RM200-RM400 with additional costs for larger signs or special requirements like public liability insurance and structural certification by a registered engineer which Emerhub can help manage and provide.
Validity and Timeline for Signboard License in Malaysia
Signboard licenses in Malaysia are valid for one year. Before expiry, you need to submit an application for renewal of signboard license to the local council.
This ensures that your business is compliant with local regulations and helps to avoid fines and penalties.
Obtain Your Signboard License in Malaysia with Emerhub
Navigating through signboard licensing in Malaysia can be challenging especially considering the varying requirements across different local authorities. Partnering with expert local advisors from Emerhub ensures compliance for your signages and a seamless application process. Our experts offer comprehensive support for your signboard application process, including:
- Expert guidance on local regulations.
- Document preparation and submission.
- Design compliance check for all sign board types.
- Liaising with local authorities.
- Fee management and post-approval support such as license renewal reminders through Emerhub App.
To get started, reach out via the form below and we’ll connect you with our experts.
