What is a liquor licence?
In Malaysia, the sale of intoxicating liquor (liquor yang memabukkan) is regulated under the Excise Act 1976 and the Excise Regulations 1977. In Kuala Lumpur, for example, the licence is issued to a business for retail sale (shops, supermarkets), wholesale, or serving liquor at restaurants, pubs, bars or cafés.
Retail vs F&B: confirm how you will sell
Liquor licences are grouped by type of sale. For example, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) lists Rumah Awam (public house, for restaurants, pubs, bars, lounges and similar), wholesale, retail, and temporary licences for events. Before applying, decide whether you sell for takeaway or serve on the premises, then confirm the requirements for that type with the relevant authority.
Who handles applications?
Applications are handled by the relevant authority. In Kuala Lumpur, for example, they go to DBKL’s Licensing and Business Development Department. Requirements differ by state and local authority; the relevant authority’s requirements prevail.
What to confirm before applying
In Kuala Lumpur, for example, DBKL asks for a DBKL business premises licence and business registration (SSM) documents. In practice, a liquor licence sits on top of your company registration and local business licence, so confirm both are in place first. Other conditions follow the relevant authority.
Official pages
- Kuala Lumpur: DBKL Licensing and Business Development Department; forms from https://elesen.dbkl.gov.my.
- Legislation: Royal Malaysian Customs Department excise legislation page.
- Elsewhere: check with the relevant local authority.
The application is made in the company’s name and is usually submitted by the company itself. We never ask for account passwords. Renewal procedures and documents follow what the authority publishes.
Application support and follow-up
We help you check the official requirements to see which application fits, organise your documents, review them before submission, and follow up on the authority’s requests until the application has an outcome.
A note on approval
Liquor licences are decided by the relevant authority. We help you prepare a complete, accurate application; the decision is the authority’s.
FAQ
Is the licence the same for retail and restaurants?
No. Authorities group licences by type of sale, such as retail, wholesale and premises that serve liquor.
What do I need before applying for a liquor licence?
In Kuala Lumpur, for example, DBKL asks for a business premises licence and company registration documents. Elsewhere, follow the relevant authority.
Official sources (accessed 26 October 2026)
- DBKL Licensing and Business Development Department (JPPP): https://www.dbkl.gov.my/jabatan/jabatan-pelesenan-dan-pembangunan-perniagaan
- Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM), Eksais legislation page: https://www.customs.gov.my/ms/prosedur/perkastaman/eksais