How to Name Your Company in Malaysia (So You Can Build a Brand That Lasts)

Starting a new business is exciting—but choosing the right name? That’s a major decision.

Here’s your two-minute guide to navigating SSM’s rules, understanding company vs brand names, and building a name that supports growth.

✅ Step 1: Understanding the SSM Naming Rules (What You Must Follow)

All company names in Malaysia must comply with SSM (Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia) regulations, specifically Section 26 of the Companies Act.

Here are the key points:

1. Unique & Not Too Generic

   – No names too similar to existing Sdn. Bhd. names: spacing, punctuation, “and/&” don’t matter 

   – Avoid overly general terms like “Beautiful Sdn. Bhd.”

   
   

2. No Restricted or Regal Words

   – Cannot include words like “Royal,” “King,” “Queen,” or government-related terms without permission

   
   

3. Symbols & Formats

   – Only &, –, ’, ( ), and . allowed, used correctly .

   – Don’t include “Company,” “Co,” “Corporation” (SSM adds “Sdn. Bhd.” automatically)

   
   

4. Acronyms & Foreign Words

   – Avoid acronyms that mimic universities or government bodies (e.g., SSM, UTM) 

   – Foreign or made-up words are okay — just include meaning in your SSM application

   
   

5. Reserve Names Early

   – You can reserve a name for 30 days (or longer) while you prepare your incorporation documents 

🚨 Useful Tip:

To check name availability, use SSM’s e-Info service or ask your company secretary to do a pre-check 

[Check the full SSM naming guidelines PDF]

🧭 Step 2: Company Name ≠ Brand Name

A company name is legal—used on official documents, contracts, and invoices. A brand name, meanwhile, is what your customers know, remember, and connect with emotionally.

Example:

• SSM Registered Name: CS Group Sdn. Bhd.

• Brand Name: ClearSight Clinic

Your brand can include stylised spelling, tagline, or subnames — and may appear on signage, website, packaging, ads, and social channels.

🎯 Step 3: Why You Shoulding Invest in Brand Naming & Strategy

A good company name meets SSM rules.But a great brand name:

• Clearly communicates your value and position

• Is easy to pronounce, spell, and remember

• Resonates with your ideal customers

• Works visually—on logos, packaging, websites

Choosing the right brand name and identity is strategic—not just creative.

🌟 Step 4: How Undoubt Studio Can Help

1. Name Generation & Testing

   • Brainstorm brandable names

   • Check domain + trademark availability

   • Validate emotional & visual appeal

   
   

2. Strategic Naming Workshop

   • Define your brand positioning, voice, and tone

   • Create names that align to your goals and audience

   
   

3. Brand Identity Design

   • Design strategy-led logo and visual identity

   • Apply across website, social, packaging, signage

   
   

✅ Ready to Build a Name That Works?

We’ve helped dozens of Malaysian founders go from “just a name”to a brand that resonates, sells, and scales.

👉 [Explore Our Branding Packages]

👉 [See Our Past Work with Strong Brand Names]