Importing communication equipment into Malaysia requires an import permit known as the Certificate of Approval (COA) from SIRIM. The procedure and requirements for obtaining this import permit vary depending on the nature of the business.
There are three types of businesses for which the import permits are categorized: company internal use, local sales, and commercial use.
To simplify things for you, we have put together a list of frequently asked questions along with direct answers about:
If you are importing communication equipment for any of these purposes, you must apply for Special Approval before obtaining the COA from SIRIM. The Special Approval ensures compliance with the regulations specified by the Malaysian Communications & Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
SIRIM Permit Business Applications and Requirements
Yes, you will need an import permit known as the Certificate of Approval (COA) when importing communications equipment for company use.
To obtain this permit, your product must comply with the Special Approval requirements set by the Malaysian Communications & Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
In simple terms, your product must undergo product certification before you can apply for the COA.
There are 5 categories of purposes for company internal use which are:
- Company’s own use
- Trials, market surveys, or demonstrations of equipment using network connections
- Exhibition purposes without network connection
- Research and development
- Training
This requirement applies to communications equipment, multimedia devices, and hybrid products (non-communication items with wireless features like WiFi and Bluetooth, such as Bluetooth earphones).
No, you cannot walk in to apply for the import permit.
The application must be submitted online through the eComM website.
Yes, DHL Express Malaysia can help with the application.
Provide us with the following information:
- ROC (Registrar of Companies) number
- Form 9/Form 13/SSM
- Login details of eComM and DagangNet (if already registered)
- Product specification/datasheet for an item
The DHL service fee is RM150, and the SIRIM processing fee varies according to the purpose of importation. A quotation will be provided for approval.
SIRIM Product Certification
The Special Approval certification for communications equipment involves two fees which are the processing fee and the evaluation fee.
- Processing Fee: RM100 per application
- Evaluation Fee: RM300 per application
Note: Testing fees are not included in the evaluation fees. However, the evaluation fee will be waived if the equipment is tested at SIRIM Lab using an internal test report.
Yes, you must send the product to SIRIM QAS for evaluation if you are importing communication equipment for your company's own use.
However, if you are importing the equipment for trials, market surveys, demonstrations, exhibitions, research and development, or training purposes, you are not required to send the product for evaluation.
The processing time for Special Approval certification typically takes two to four weeks from the date of sample submission.
There are 5 steps to apply for the Special Approval certification for communications equipment intended for company use:
Step 1: Registration
Step 2: Special Approval (SA) application submission
Step 3: Payment
Step 4: Product submission for evaluation/testing
Step 5: Import permit preparation
For more details, read the complete guide.
You should apply for the Special Approval certification before preparing your shipment for import.
This is because the processing time will take two to four weeks.
Yes, all equipment must be recertified to ensure compliance with local requirements.
However, SIRIM accepts test reports from the following sources:
Laboratories recognized by SKMM under Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs)
Laboratories under SIRIM Berhad or SIRIM QAS INTERNATIONAL SDN. BHD.
Laboratories accredited under the national laboratory accreditation scheme managed by the Department of Standards Malaysia (STANDARDS MALAYSIA) known as Skim Akreditasi Makmal Malaysia (SAMM)
Laboratories under the IECEE CB Scheme, with the test report accompanied by a CB test certificate
Laboratories accredited by accreditation bodies that have signed accreditation cooperation agreements with STANDARDS MALAYSIA, such as APLAC or ILAC.
SIRIM Import Permit
The total cost of the SIRIM import permit ranges from RM630 to RM640.
Here’s a breakdown of the fees involved:
- One-time Registration Fee: RM300.00
- One-time Stamp Duty: RM20.00
- Annual Access Fee: RM250.00
- Transaction Fee for Registered EPermit User (Approved Permit): RM60.50 per permit
- Transaction Fee for Non-Registered EPermit User (Approved Permit): RM70.00 per permit
The processing time for the SIRIM import permit is quick, as applications through the E-Permit system are typically approved within 24 hours.
There are 5 steps to apply for the Import Permit for communications equipment intended for company use:
Step 1: Registration
Step 2: Import permit application submission
Step 3: Add import item
Step 4: Client declaration
Step 5: Customs Acknowledgement
Step 6: Payment and Custom Clearance
For more details, read the complete guide.
You should apply for the SIRIM import permit after you have completed the Special Approval certification process.
