Malaysia maintains structured regulatory frameworks for the import and sale of wireless communication equipment and electrical/electronic products. The key regulators are the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) for telecom and RF devices, and Suruhanjaya Tenaga (ST) and SIRIM QAS International for electrical safety and product conformity.
1. Type Approval for Wireless and Telecom Devices
Wireless and telecommunications devices—such as smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, and base stations—require type approval from MCMC, often facilitated through SIRIM QAS, an accredited certification body.
Approval process:
- Application via local representative or certified company
- Submission of:
- Technical specifications (frequency, power)
- Test reports (FCC, CE, or other recognized bodies)
- Product photos and manuals
- Local testing may be required for some product categories
- Issuance of a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) and MCMC Type Approval
Devices must carry the SIRIM label, which shows compliance.
Certificate validity:
- Typically 1 to 5 years, depending on the product and approval scheme
Typical lead times:
- 3 to 5 weeks, depending on testing and documentation completeness
2. Electrical Safety and EMC Compliance
Electrical and electronic equipment—such as chargers, household appliances, and industrial electronics—must comply with local safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards.
Malaysia mandates certification for regulated product categories through SIRIM QAS or Suruhanjaya Tenaga (ST).
Requirements include:
- Testing (either local or accepted international test reports)
- Compliance with Malaysian Standards (MS)
- Electrical Safety Certification and ST CoC
- Energy Efficiency Label for certain devices (e.g., air conditioners, refrigerators)
Certificate validity:
- Generally valid for 5 years, depending on the scheme
Typical lead times:
- 4 to 6 weeks, especially if testing is required
Customs and Import Considerations
To import telecom and electrical products into Malaysia:
- Secure MCMC Type Approval and SIRIM labeling for wireless/telecom devices
- Obtain electrical safety and EMC certificates from authorized bodies
- Use a locally registered company or representative for submissions
- Ensure product labeling follows local guidelines
- Manuals and safety warnings should be provided in Malay or English
Non-compliant products may be seized or delayed at Malaysian customs.
Closing remarks
Certification ensures not only regulatory compliance but also consumer trust and market access. Companies planning to enter the Malaysian market should budget time and resources for these approvals early in their go-to-market process. Getting certified in Malaysia is essential for legal importation and customer acceptance. Whether you're launching wireless gadgets, network gear, or consumer electronics—compliance is your passport to Malaysia.
Need help managing Malaysia approval? We are happy to guide you through it!
