To get a coffee shop licence in Malaysia, register your entity with SSM and obtain your local council (PBT) business/premise and signboard licences; approvals hinge on zoning, health and fire compliance. Prioritise site selection: choose a lot already approved for F&B use with an occupancy certificate (CCC), compliant exhaust/hood and grease trap access—this cuts approvals from 8+ weeks to 3–6. Before committing to a lease, request a written suitability check from the council. Prepare core documents: SSM registration, tenancy/owner consent, floor plan, menu, IC, photos, and company profile. Health requirements include an MOH-approved Food Handling Course certificate and current typhoid vaccinations for all handlers, grease trap sizing and a maintenance contract, potable water reports (if required), pest-control and waste disposal contracts. Coordinate BOMBA for fire safety (extinguishers, exit signage; Fire Certificate where applicable). Typical council fees: RM1,000–3,000 for premise/business, RM200–1,500 for signboard; processing 2–8 weeks depending on council (e.g., DBKL, MBPJ, MBSA). Add-ons: liquor licence if serving alcohol; PPM/MACP music licences for background music; Halal certification via JAKIM/State Jabatan Agama (optional; 4–12 weeks). Ensure signage follows Malay-first wording (some councils require Jawi and company number). Keep records for inspections and renew annually. Plan cashflow for deposits, utilities, and inspections upfront.
