Every company must lodge an annual return with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) each year under the Companies Act 2016, and must also lodge its financial statements, a separate filing with its own deadline. Together, these keep the company's registered details up to date with SSM and its compliance record in good standing.
It is worth separating two things. These are administrative and compliance filings, which are not the same as a financial audit. Filing means reporting information to SSM, while an audit is an independent opinion on the accounts, given by an approved company auditor.
What needs to be filed each year?
- Annual return: updates the latest details on directors, shareholders, shareholding structure and registered address
- Financial statements: reflect the company's financial position for the financial year, lodged through SSM's Malaysian Business Reporting System (MBRS)
- Under Malaysian law, most private limited companies must have their financial statements audited by an approved company auditor before filing (unless they qualify for an exemption). This step is carried out by an independent auditor, with GXY preparing the documents and liaising with the auditor
Deadlines and the consequences of filing late
The annual return must be lodged within the prescribed period after the company's incorporation anniversary, and financial statements have their own filing deadline too. Filing late means fines from SSM, and in serious cases directors can face penalties or the company can even risk being struck off.
These deadlines are usually tracked by the company secretary. We help businesses prepare financial statements, coordinate with auditors and manage the filing process, helping to keep annual compliance milestones on track.
This content is for general reference only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. For your own situation, please book a consultation so that GXY's advisory team can advise on your actual circumstances. Last updated: 20 August 2026.
