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How to Open Your Own Clinic in Malaysia (2025)

Why Open Your Own Clinic Now?

Malaysia’s private healthcare industry is projected to grow rapidly, reaching RM10 billion by 2027 (Kenanga Research). This growth reflects increasing demand for primary healthcare services, opening promising opportunities for both young and experienced doctors to start their own clinics.

However, setting up a private clinic in Malaysia involves more than just renting a space and putting up a signboard. The entire process is regulated under Act 586 (Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998) and requires strict compliance with licensing and operational guidelines.

Legal Requirements Under Act 586 to Open a Clinic

To legally open a clinic, a doctor must:

  • Be registered with the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC)
  • Have completed compulsory service
  • Possess a valid Annual Practising Certificate (APC)
  • Register a PLT or Sdn Bhd company with SSM
  • Ensure the premises meet CKAPS layout and specifications
  • Follow a structured process in three key phases
how to open your own clinic : the phases

Key Phases in Setting Up a Private Clinic

We have simplified the setup journey into three main phases:

Phase 1: Business Setup & Basic Licences

StepCan Be Done Concurrently?Estimated Duration
Choose clinic locationYes1–2 weeks
Register company (PLT/Sdn Bhd)Yes3–7 days
Rent/purchase premises + floor planYes1–2 weeks
Apply for signboard licence (PBT)Yes7–14 days

Note: Ensure the company name and clinic name are consistent from the beginning.

Phase 2: Ministry of Health (MOH) Application

StepMust Wait Before Proceeding?Estimated Duration
Fill & submit Form A to UKAPSYes3–7 days prep + 1–2 weeks review
Receive No Objection Letter (for renovation)Yes1 week
Renovate premises as per approved planYes1–2 months
Notify UKAPS of completionYes1 week
On-site inspection by UKAPSYes1 day (scheduled date)
Review by CKAPS (Putrajaya)Yes2–4 weeks
Pay fee & print Form BYes3–5 days after approval

Phase 3: Operational Readiness

Additional StepCan Be Done Concurrently?Estimated Duration
Register with KWSP, SOCSO, HRDF (if hiring staff)Yes1 week
Source suppliers & clinic softwareYes1–2 weeks
Hire staff / set operating scheduleYes1–2 weeks

Total Estimated Duration

  • Fastest timeline: 4 months
  • Average timeline: 4–7 months
  • With technical issues: Up to 8 months
the process when establishing your own clinic

Real Experiences from Doctors Who’ve Done It

“According to Dr. Uwais – a former MO who now runs his own clinic in Johor – CKAPS approval took just 21 days because the floor plan was pre-verified by an experienced contractor. ‘If you follow the steps clearly, you won’t need to resubmit documents,’ he said.”

“I almost overlooked the DBP requirement for the signboard name. Thankfully, the consultant team reminded me early on – otherwise, my PBT licence would’ve been delayed by 2 weeks.”
– Dr. Nadia, newly opened clinic in Seremban.

These insights help you avoid common mistakes, saving time and money. At Hijraa Group, we use real-world experience to help you set up your clinic without trial and error.

Common Questions from Medical Officers (MOs)

💬 What is the minimum capital needed to open a clinic in 2025?
Typical startup costs range from RM60,000 to RM100,000, depending on size, location, and renovation. Starting small with tight budgeting is possible at around RM60,000.

💬 Can I open a clinic without a partner?
Yes – as long as you register under Sdn Bhd or PLT, and you’re the licence holder and a registered doctor in Malaysia. A partner is optional, not required.

💬 How long does the full setup process take?
On average: 4 to 8 months, depending on Form A approval, layout readiness, and inspection timelines.

💬 Is there someone who can manage the whole process?
Yes – for a faster, more efficient setup, Hijraa Group offers full clinic setup services from A to Z.

checklist to open a clinic

Checklist for Opening a Clinic

Before you begin, make sure you’ve covered these essential items:

1. Choose a Strategic Location

  • Area with no existing clinics
  • Suitable demographics (e.g., high population)
  • Easy access & parking

2. Register Your Company with SSM

  • Use MyCoID portal
  • Fee: RM1,010

3. Apply for Signboard Licence

  • Documents: site plan, signboard design, tenancy/purchase agreement
  • DBP approval required for clinic name

4. Submit Form A to UKAPS

  • 2 complete copies
  • Include: IC, APC, MMC cert, degree, 1:100 floor plan, statutory declaration
  • Processing fee: RM500

5. Renovate Premises

  • Main door ≥ 1.2m, spacious waiting area
  • Pharmacy counter, drug fridge, SOPs, org chart

6. UKAPS Inspection

  • Upon approval, forwarded to CKAPS

7. CKAPS Approval

  • Processing time: ~30 working days
  • Fee: RM1,000
  • Form B will be issued – clinic is now allowed to operate

Realistic Startup Cost Estimate (2025)

ComponentCost (RM)
SSM + PBT Registration1,500
CKAPS Fees (Form A + B)1,500
Renovation20,000 – 40,000
Equipment & Medical Supplies25,000 – 50,000
IT System, Software & CCTV5,000 – 10,000
Operating Capital10,000 – 20,000
Total EstimateRM60,000 – RM100,000+

Risk of Operating Without Licence (Act 586)

  • Up to RM300,000 fine (individual)
  • Up to RM500,000 fine (company)
  • Maximum 6 years imprisonment

FAQ

Q: Do I need a partner to open a clinic?
A: No. You can open one as a solo doctor if you’re a registered MO who has completed compulsory service.

Q: How long does the setup process take?
A: Around 5–8 months, depending on layout and licence approval.

Q: Can I name the clinic after myself?
A: Yes – but it must comply with DBP & MOH guidelines. If you wish to be part of the Hijraa Group, the clinic must carry the Hijraa brand.

worry free by consulting with hijraa group

Start Your Clinic Without the Headache

At Hijraa Group, we help you build your clinic from A to Z, including:

✅ Company setup
✅ Premises renovation
✅ CKAPS licensing
✅ Financial management guidance
✅ Medical supplies & software systems

All you need to do is walk into your clinic – fully ready. It’s like checking into a hotel, except you own it.

👉 Click here or use the button below to contact our consultants now!

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