What is MSIC?
The Malaysia Standard Industrial Classification (MSIC) is a system used by the Malaysian government to classify all economic activities. It is based on the United Nations International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC) and is maintained by the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM).
Every business registered in Malaysia must declare at least one MSIC code that describes its primary business activity. This code is used by government agencies including SSM (Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia), LHDN (Lembaga Hasil Dalam Negeri), and Bank Negara Malaysia for regulatory, tax, and statistical purposes.
Current Version
The current version is MSIC 2008 Version 1.0, published by DOSM. It contains 21 sections, 88 divisions, 238 groups, 425 classes, and 1,526 items covering all economic activities in Malaysia.
MSIC Code Structure
MSIC codes follow a hierarchical structure with 5 levels, from broad industry sectors down to specific business activities:
When registering a business with SSM, you need to provide the 5-digit item code (Level 5). This is the most specific classification that accurately describes your business activity.
How to Choose the Right MSIC Code
Identify your primary business activity
Think about what your business actually does on a day-to-day basis. Focus on the main revenue-generating activity, not supporting functions.
Search by keyword or browse by section
Use our search tool to find codes by activity name, or browse all 21 sections to navigate the hierarchy.
Select a 5-digit item code
Drill down to the most specific code that matches your activity. SSM requires 5-digit codes for company registration.
Check the description and inclusions
Each code has a description plus "includes" and "excludes" lists. Make sure your activity falls within the "includes" scope.
Register multiple codes if needed
If your business has multiple distinct activities, you can register more than one MSIC code with SSM. List the primary activity first.
Where MSIC Codes Are Used
SSM Company Registration
Required when registering a new company (Sdn Bhd, LLP) or sole proprietorship with SSM. You must declare your MSIC code during registration.
e-Invoicing (MyInvois)
MSIC code is a mandatory field on every e-invoice issued through LHDN's MyInvois system. Learn more about e-invoicing.
Tax Filing (LHDN)
LHDN uses MSIC codes to classify businesses for tax assessment, SST determination, and withholding tax requirements.
Government Grants
Eligibility for grants from MDEC, SME Corp, and other agencies is often determined by your MSIC code classification.
Tips & Common Mistakes
Do choose the most specific 5-digit code that describes your actual business activity.
Do register multiple MSIC codes if your business has genuinely different revenue streams.
Do use the same MSIC code consistently across SSM registration, tax filings, and e-invoices.
Don't pick a broad division or group code (2-4 digits) — SSM requires the full 5-digit item code.
Don't choose a code just because it sounds prestigious — pick what your business actually does.
Don't ignore the "excludes" list — if your activity is excluded, look at the suggested alternative code.
Ready to find your MSIC code?
Search our comprehensive directory of all MSIC codes.
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