Key Takeaways
- Indicative 2026 ranges: basic retainers run RM60 to RM200 per month, and annual packages run RM600 to RM1,800, before event-based charges.
- The SSM annual return lodgement (RM150) is a government fee and sits outside most retainers, along with its preparation fee.
- Low retainers become expensive through exclusions: resolutions, certified copies, director changes and transfer-file fees.
- Compare quotes on the same 12-month scope. The cheapest headline is rarely the cheapest year.
Company secretary fees in Malaysia may look simple on a provider's website, but the final invoice can be different. The monthly retainer is only 1 part of the cost. This guide helps you compare the full 12-month cost for the same services.
The ranges below are estimates based on Malaysian provider prices published in 2025 and 2026. Your actual quote will depend on your company's size, activity and structure. Focus on what each fee covers, not only the quoted amount.
How much are company secretary fees in Malaysia?
Company secretary fees in Malaysia typically run RM60 to RM200 per month as a retainer, or RM600 to RM1,800 per year as an annual package, plus SSM charges like the RM150 annual return lodgement and event-based fees for resolutions, changes and certified documents. Ranges are indicative for 2026 and vary with company complexity.
| Fee component | Indicative range (2026) |
|---|---|
| Monthly retainer | RM60 to RM200 per month |
| Annual package | RM600 to RM1,800 per year |
| Premium or complex structures | Up to about RM3,500 per year |
| SSM annual return lodgement | RM150 (government fee) |
| Annual return preparation | RM300 to RM500, often separate |
Government fees versus professional fees
Most quotations contain 3 types of charges. Compare them separately:
- Government fees. Fixed SSM charges, like the RM150 annual return lodgement for a private company. Every provider pays the same SSM fees. Check whether a quote passes these through at cost or marks them up.
- Professional fees. What the company secretary charges for the retainer, filing preparation, resolutions and advice. This is where service packages differ.
- Disbursements. Costs such as postage, printing, courier and administration. Each amount may be small, but a monthly admin fee can make a low retainer more expensive.
If a quote combines all 3 into 1 amount, ask for a clear breakdown. A good provider should explain each charge.
What a monthly retainer usually covers
A low retainer usually covers the appointment of a licensed company secretary, maintenance of statutory registers and basic compliance advice. However, it may not include preparing and lodging the annual return, drafting resolutions or processing company changes.
Higher retainers and annual packages usually include more of this work. The difference between RM60 and RM200 per month is often the list of included services.
Common charges excluded from low retainers
This is where cheap quotes get expensive. Frequently excluded items, with indicative 2026 ranges from published Malaysian fee schedules:
- Annual return preparation: RM300 to RM500, separate from the RM150 SSM lodgement
- Board and member resolutions beyond a small quota: RM20 to RM150 each
- Certified true copies for banks and loan applications
- Director or shareholder changes: RM150 to RM300 per change
- Share allotments: RM250 to RM500
- Beneficial ownership register updates
- Transfer-file or termination fees when you leave: RM300 to RM500
Also check whether the provider issues proper invoices for extra charges. Protect your company by getting a written engagement letter and an itemised fee schedule before work begins.
Is the cheapest company secretary actually cheaper?
Compare the full 12-month cost for the same services. For example, an RM60 monthly retainer costs RM720 per year. Add an estimated RM300 to RM500 for annual return preparation and the RM150 SSM lodgement fee, and the total becomes about RM1,200 to RM1,400. An RM1,200 annual package may cost about the same if it includes the annual return and routine resolutions.
A dormant Sdn Bhd owner asked about lower-cost options on Lowyat. The replies also raised an important question: if the company has no future plans, should it remain registered or be struck off? Remember that the company secretary fee is only 1 part of the yearly cost. Our guide to the hidden costs of running a Sdn Bhd explains the full picture.
If your company is dormant and you do not plan to use it, discuss the options with your company secretary before renewing.
What changes the price for your company
The same service costs differently depending on your situation:
- Dormant or zero-revenue companies sit at the bottom of the range: minimal transactions, minimal filings.
- Active SMEs pay more as resolutions, changes and certified documents multiply with activity.
- Foreign-owned or complex structures may need more documents and support. Where relevant, published guides estimate nominee arrangements at RM5,000 to RM12,000 per year on their own.
- Group structures cost more because each company has its own compliance duties.
Ask for a quote based on your company's actual needs. Confirm the services first, then compare the price.
How to compare company secretary quotes fairly
Send every shortlisted provider the same 12 questions and compare line by line:
- Monthly or annual retainer amount
- Annual return preparation and lodgement: included or extra
- Beneficial ownership register updates
- Standard board and member resolutions: quota or per-use
- Registered office and mail handling
- Statutory register maintenance
- Certified true copies
- SSM filing fees and other disbursements: pass-through or marked up
- Charges for changes to directors, shareholders, shares, address or financial year end
- Response time and your named point of contact
- Compliance calendar and proactive reminders
- Termination, resignation and handover fees
A provider who answers all 12 questions clearly and in writing is showing you the service level you can expect. Our guide to choosing a company secretary in Malaysia covers the non-fee criteria, and the company secretary responsibilities in Malaysia guide explains what each line item actually involves. If you are mid-switch, here is how to change company secretary in Malaysia.
Compare the year, not the headline
To compare company secretary fees in Malaysia, look beyond the monthly price. Separate government fees, professional fees and disbursements. Then compare the full 12-month cost for the same services.
SSAM Group quotes every engagement as a transparent 12-month scope with inclusions, exclusions, government fees and event-based charges listed separately, backed by 40 years of experience, 1,000+ loyal customers and a 99% client satisfaction record. Ask for your scope through our company secretary services in Kuala Lumpur page, speak to the SSAM team, or WhatsApp us at +6011-6529 9879.
FAQs about company secretary fees
What is the SSM annual return fee?
The SSM lodgement fee for a private company's annual return is RM150, payable every year. Your secretary's preparation fee for the return is usually separate.
Why do company secretary quotes differ so much?
Because scope differs. A low retainer often covers only the legal appointment, while packages fold in filings, resolutions and advisory. Compare the 12-month total on the same scope.
Are disbursements normal in a quotation?
Yes, within reason. Postage, printing and courier charges are normal. A flat monthly admin fee that inflates a cheap retainer is worth questioning.
Can I negotiate the retainer?
You can ask, but the more productive negotiation is scope: which filings and resolutions are included, and at what event rates. A cheaper retainer with the wrong scope saves nothing.
What does a dormant company pay?
Dormant companies sit at the bottom of the range since filings are minimal, but the retainer, annual return and its preparation still apply. If the company has no future, ask about strike-off costs before renewing.
Data sources and further references
- SSM: Registration of Company table of fees
- Companies Act 2016 (Laws of Malaysia), via the federal gazette portal
- Indicative third-party ranges: Foundingbird company secretary fee guide, KC Group 2026 company secretary guide, Consistant Info 2026 pricing guide, Jin Advisory price breakdown
The information in this article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, accounting, financial or legal advice. Tax laws change frequently and may not apply to your situation. Always consult a qualified professional before acting on any information here.
