Permanent Residency in Malaysia

• Plan and research your business while studying.
• Build connections in the local market.
• Test ideas through small, online platforms (like social media or freelancing sites).
• Collaborate with local partners or friends.
• Learn the Malaysian business culture and rules.

Once you complete your studies, you can apply for a proper work or business visa that allows you to register and run a business legally.

Starting a Business After Graduation

Once you complete your studies, you can apply for a Professional Visit Pass, Employment Pass, or a Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Visa if you qualify. These allow you to legally stay in Malaysia and apply for a business license.

You can then register a business with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). Some common options include:

• Sole Proprietorship (with a local partner)
• Partnership
• Private Limited Company (Sdn. Bhd.)

Foreigners can hold shares in a Sdn. Bhd. company, and certain industries allow full foreign ownership.

Things to Do Before Starting a Business

Even if you can't legally register a business as a student, you can still prepare:

• Do Market Research: Study the local demand, pricing, and competitors.
• Build a Business Plan: Write down your goals, products/services, target audience, and strategy.
• Learn the Rules: Understand Malaysia’s business laws, especially about foreign ownership, taxes, and business registration.
• Grow Your Network: Attend entrepreneurship events, workshops, and university programs.
• Improve Your Skills: Take free online courses in business, marketing, or finance.

Planning ahead will help you turn your ideas into a real business after graduation.

Popular Business Ideas for Students

Here are some business ideas that are suitable for international students who want to start small or plan for the future:

1. Online Business

E-commerce is booming in Malaysia. You can sell products through platforms like Shopee, Lazada, or Instagram. Items like fashion accessories, handmade crafts, or imported goods from your home country are popular.

2. Freelancing and Digital Services

If you have skills in writing, graphic design, social media, or web development, you can offer your services online through freelance platforms like Fiverr or Upwork. These can be managed part-time while studying.

3. Tutoring and Coaching

Many international students offer tutoring services for school subjects, test preparation, or language learning (like English or their native language). You can teach online or in person.

4. Food and Beverage (F&B)

If you're passionate about cooking, you can start a small home-based food service or partner with a local kitchen to sell snacks or meals from your culture. Social media and food delivery apps are helpful for promotion.

Support for Young Entrepreneurs

Malaysia has many government and private programs to support entrepreneurs, including:

• Cradle Fund: Offers grants and funding for startups.
• Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC): Supports digital businesses and tech founders.
• TEKUN Nasional and MARA: These provide training and microloans (mostly for locals, but useful for networking).
• University Incubators: Many Malaysian universities have startup hubs and business competitions.

Getting involved in these can give you exposure, mentoring, and funding opportunities. While you can't legally run a business under a student visa in Malaysia, you can use your time wisely to plan, test, and prepare for a future as a business owner. Malaysia’s business-friendly environment, affordable cost of living, and digital growth make it a smart choice for young international entrepreneurs. Whether you're selling online, offering services, or dreaming of a startup, Malaysia could be the first chapter in your business journey.