Direct answer
SSM states that a director must be a natural person, at least 18, ordinarily resident in Malaysia and meet the other published eligibility conditions.
What the official guidance says
SSM sets out baseline requirements for private and public companies, including directors who ordinarily reside in Malaysia and promoter requirements.
Basic Incorporation Requirements in MalaysiaSSM requires the first company secretary to be appointed within the stated period after incorporation and sets eligibility conditions for the secretary.
Company Secretary Appointment in Malaysia
Source: Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) guidance, via our in-depth guides:
Directors, Owners & Governance checklist for Malaysia
- Confirm age and natural-person status.
- Confirm principal or ordinary residence in Malaysia.
- Check bankruptcy and disqualification conditions.
- Keep identification and consent documents ready.
- Identify promoter(s) and director(s).
- Check the residence requirements.
- Confirm whether a private or public company route is appropriate.
- Retain the source used for the eligibility review.
- Identify an eligible licensed or professional secretary.
- Calendar the appointment deadline.
- Retain the appointment filing evidence.
- Use the latest SSM rules for any exception.
Practical focus
Map directors, members, shareholders or other governance roles against the exact requirements published by the relevant authority.
Frequently asked questions
Which authority controls directors, owners & governance in Malaysia?
Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) is the primary authority for the guidance on this page. Other authorities can be involved depending on your activity; re-check the official source before acting.