Skip to content

What is Company Constitution Malaysia, When to Adopt and is it Mandatory?

We have assisted and consult numerous clients regarding Company Constitution Malaysia:


What is Company Constitution Malaysia?

company constitution Malaysia (previously referred to as Article and Memorandum of Association) is a legal document recognised by the Companies Act 2016. It generally specifies the rules governing the relationship and activities of the corporate, its shareholders and directors.

company constitution malaysia

When to adopt and is it mandatory?

Company Constitution Malaysia is not mandatory. At the point of incorporation, shareholders may choose to adopt a constitution either on or after company registration. It is best to adopt when there is more than one (1) shareholder in the Company.

The difference compared to Shareholders Agreement?

A constitution is a special form of contract as it binds the company, shareholders and directors who initially agreed to adopt a constitution and any future shareholders, unlike shareholders agreement which only binds those who are parties to it.

What is the effect of adopting Company Constitution Malaysia?

First of all, a constitution has a similar effect as a contract between the company, shareholder, director and company secretary. The provision is to comply or a decision may be voided. However, it usually does not create enforceable rights between the shareholders, directors and/or company secretary.

Usually the Companies Act 2016 will set out some rules governing the relationship between the company, its shareholders and directors. Company constitution may be adopted to exchange the provisions of the Companies Act 2016 that is applicable. If the Companies Act 2016 is silent on the method for decision making, the company constitution can be used to fill in the gap.

As an example, the Companies Act 2016 states that issuance of new shares requires ordinary resolution, which can be passed through a majority vote. Shareholders may use Company Consitution to override this and state that the issuance of a new share must be decided with a unanimous vote.

Conclusion

A company constitution is not relevant in all circumstances. It is usually necessary for growing and bigger organisation as it onboard more shareholders and directors. This is to ensure consistency in decision making process and offers clarity on duties and responsibilities.


We have assisted numerous clients to prepare their Company Constitution:


The following are other relevant articles that may help further:

1) 3 Types of Business Setup in Malaysia

2) How to Setup a Company in Malaysia (i.e. Sdn Bhd Company)?

3) What are the Annual Compliance Requirement of a Private Limited Company (Sdn Bhd)

4) How to Choose the Right Company Secretary for your Private Limited Company (Sdn Bhd)?

5) What are the Issues faced by foreigner to setup a Company in Malaysia?

6) What is a Shareholder in Malaysia?

7) Company Registration Malaysia