How To Start A Business In Sabah
Setting up your own business is exciting, but can also be challenging if you’re not prepared. This guide will take you through each step of starting a business and help you understand what’s ahead.

1
Make key decisionsThe decisions you make early on can affect many areas of your business, including the licenses you need, how much tax you pay and the volume of paperwork required.

2
Plan your BusinessYou’ve analysed your idea and yourself. Next you can plan your future and see how it all comes together.

3
Help for your businessFind resources to help you with your business, from general business advice to finance assistance and support for your mental health and wellbeing.

4
Register Your BusinessTo make it official, you’ll need to register. This makes sure your business gets taxed at the right rate, avoids penalties and protects your brand and ideas.

5
Prepare Your FinancesIt’s essential to take charge of your business finances and know how to manage your cash flow. It could make or break your business. If you need help, consider speaking to a financial advisor.

6
Know the lawFinding out your business isn’t entirely above board can cost you time and money. Start off strong by setting up and protecting your business legally. Consider speaking to a legal professional to help you along the way.

7
Protect your businessYou invest too much time and money in your business to lose it. Protect your investment by planning ahead.

8
Prepare for taxGetting on top of your taxes now can make things easier in the long run. It can help you avoid penalties and make sure your business is taxed at the correct rate.

9
Set up operationSetting up your business operations properly will save you trouble in the long run, and give you more time to focus on running your business.

10
Market your businessPromote your business and brand to your target audience to grow your customer base.
Begin your Journey Here
guide to help you get started with your very own business in Sabah.
General Process of Application
List of Operating Licenses By Sectors
Step 01
| License | Business License |
| Issuing Body | District office |
| Documents | – |
Step 02
| License | Trading License |
| Issuing Body | City Hall, Municipal Council |
| Documents | Tenancy Agreement / Sales & Purchase Agreement, Proof of Identity (IC), Assessment Tax Receipt |
Step 03
Compulsory License / Permit / Certification
| License | Fire Safety Certificate |
| Issuing Body | Local Fire Department |
| Documents | Floor Plan / Renovation Plan |
Step 04
Sector License
| License | Operating License |
| Issuing Body | City Hall, Municipal Council, Town Hall |
| Documents | Trading License, Health Card for Workers, Health Certificate for Food & Drink Handling, Work Pass, Floor Plan / Renovation Plan |
Food & Beverage Sector
Coffee Shop License
Coffee House License
Canteen License
Coupling Dining Stall License
Bakery License
Pub / Bar Lounge License
Manufacturing & Processing Sector
Food Making/Processing Factory License
Beverage Making/Processing Factory License
Ice Making/Processing Factory License
Other Operating License / Permits
Petroleum Storage License
Signage License
Used Goods License
Offensive Business License
Self -Service Water Machine Permit
Hospitality and Entertainment Sector
Hotel / Lodging House License
Public Entertainment License
Lottery Room License
Lottery/Slot Machine Floor Room License
Doby License
Unisex Salon / Barber License

