A Guide To MBI Business License Applications
If you’re looking to run a business in Ipoh Timor or Ipoh Barat, our guide provides an overview of business license applications from Majlis Bandaraya Ipoh (MBI) the Local Authority for both areas.

Here’s how we’ve broken it down:
- Types of MBI ‘business licenses’
- Required documents
- License fees, and
- Where to apply
Note: As license fees vary significantly by business activity, it would be impractical to list them here, but you’re welcome to contact us for specific enquiries!
Otherwise, let’s begin.
Types of MBI business licenses
When we say MBI business license, we usually mean three types of licenses:
If you don’t need a signboard, a premise license will suffice.
However, most businesses do, and both licenses can be applied for simultaneously as a composite license.
Composite licenses also allow applicants to register multiple activities under one premise, making it the better choice for most businesses.
Required documents
Depending on your nature of business, you may be asked for additional supporting documents from technical agencies like Fire or Police departments, but the folowing list is mandatory for all.
- Copy of applicant’s photograph
- Copy of the applicant’s MyKad or passport
- Business registration documents
- Copy of lease agreement
- Copy of location plan
- Copy of floor plan
- Copy of latest cleared assessment tax receipt
- Copy of land grant or Temporary Occupation License
- Copy of Certificate of Fitness for Occupation (if new building)
We’ve included samples of some of the required documents in the next section:
Sample documents
Sample location plan (A4 size):

Sample floor plan (A4 size):

Sample tax assessment document:

Sample photo of premise exterior:

Sample photo of premise interior:

License fees and validity period
There are two types of fees:
- Processing fee: Paid upon application submission
- License fee: Paid upon license approval / renewal
As of January 2025, MBI imposes the following processing fees:
- RM30 for business premise licenses
- RM50 for business signboard licenses
- RM30 for composite licenses
The license fee depends on the business activity and premise floor size.
Premise, signboard, and composite licenses are valid for one year from the date of issuance, and if there are no issues, can be renewed for another year.
Where to submit your application
Most businesses can choose between a physical and virtual submission.
Option 1: Physical submission
Applications can be submitted in person at the Licensing Department, Level 2, Ipoh City Council Building, with relevant forms and documents:

This option, though tedious, brings you within tasting range of the delicious chicken rice in the area 🙂
If you don’t care about chicken rice, we recommend the second option.
Option 2: Virtual submission
Businesses engaging in these activities are considered non-risky businesses and can submit their license applications online via MBI’s MyNoRisk platform.

As it’s your first time, you’ll need to register a new account.
Here’s the official MyNoRisk user manual (unfortunately it’s only available in Bahasa Melayu).
And that’s pretty much all you need to know for now!
Pre-application checklist
For a smooth license application, ensure you’ve done the following five things:
- Registered a Sole Proprietorship or incorporated a Sdn Bhd
- Found a suitable premise
- Secured the right supporting documents
- Designed a signboard that complies with MBJB guidelines, and
- Prepared floor plans and take photos of your premises
All the best, and you know we’re here if you need help, right?
Let MISHU help with your license application
The MISHU business license team has helped both local and foreign business owners across multiple industries with their MBI business license applications, and we’d love to help you too!