Permits granted to home-based startups

Rozali says 42 home-based entrepreneurs have received their Business From Home licences

IN less than three months since the Business From Home permit became available through Seberang Prai City Council (MBSP), 42 home-based entrepreneurs have applied and obtained it.

Mayor Datuk Rozali Mohamud said most of these entrepreneurs were selling food and beverages, cosmetics, clothing and fashion accessories, sanitary products and various pastry products from home.

“Then there are those providing services like photography and advertising, software engineering, insurance renewal and bridal makeup, ” said Rozali.

Of these home-based startups, central Seberang Prai District recorded the highest number of applications with 21, followed by south Seberang Prai at 12 and north Seberang Prai with nine.

The Business From Home permit became available from Jan 1.

It was created for home-based entrepreneurs to have valid business licences, even when they do not operate from commercial premises.

The main purpose is to allow such entrepreneurs to have access to business banking facilities such as a company current account.

Most banks, Rozali explained, would only allow entrepreneurs to open current accounts with their business names if they have proper business permits from local authorities.

Without such accounts, these entrepreneurs must use their personal banking accounts to do transactions, which can lead to confusion and problems with bookkeeping.

Recognising this need, Rozali said MBSP made the permit available and produced guidelines for home-based entrepreneurs to abide by, such as ensuring that their business activities do not become a nuisance to neighbours.

Applications for this permit can be made by downloading the application form from MBSP’s website. Applicants must be 18 years old and above.

Only those who have registered their businesses with Companies Commission of Malaysia in the online business category are eligible to apply.

Completed application forms can be submitted to the Licensing Department on the first floor of MBSP headquarters in Bandar Perda.

The permit is valid for six months for a fee of RM60 and can be renewed on a half-yearly basis.