Malaysia’s startup ecosystem is vibrant and growing, and many founders are considering establishing a presence here. As a startup lawyer who regularly advises founders on establishing a startup in Malaysia, I’ve put together eight frequently asked questions (FAQs) that hopefully
Startup Law Blog
Startup Law Blog, published by Izwan & Partners, focuses on legal issues relevant to technology entrepreneurs, startup founders, and angel investors in Malaysia. The blog covers topics such as regulatory frameworks for fintech and digital assets, legal considerations for fundraising including seed rounds and venture capital, essential online agreements for startups, and governance issues like boards and advisors. It also addresses emerging areas like AI regulation in Southeast Asia and provides guidance on compliance with local laws including data protection and securities regulations. The content aims to help startups navigate Malaysia's evolving legal landscape and supports founders in managing legal risks and structuring their businesses effectively.
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Navigating shareholder disputes in startups: Different exit strategies and mechanisms explained
As the business evolves, disputes may arise due to diverging interests or expectations among team members. Growth may bring shareholder disputes usually among founders, investors, or employees as they grapple with differences in vision or priorities among the stakeholders.
This…
Should I Give My Lawyer Equity Stake in My Startup?
It is uncommon for startup lawyers to get equity stake in exchange for legal services, but we may be open to accepting small percentages for startups (if your business is exciting enough). As a founder, you need to consider not…
Sweat equity checklist for startups in Malaysia
As a startup lawyer, I get asked a lot on how to structure sweat equity where the company issues new shares to someone (usually with certain skills or expertise) in exchange for his or her contribution to the company.
Whether…
Capital gains tax in Malaysia update
Following a new gazette on 29 December 2023, the effective date for the capital gains tax on gains or profits received from the disposal of shares of unlisted companies formed in Malaysia will start from 1 March 2024, in line…
SAFE agreement and convertible notes in Malaysia update
Earlier this week at the Malaysia Venture Forum 2023 the SC chairman said that an exemption will be introduced to further clarify the use of the Simple Agreement For Future Equity (‘SAFE’) agreements and convertible notes by investors investing in…
Proposed capital gains tax (CGT) in Malaysia: How will this affect investors and startups?
The recent budget 2023 by the Malaysian prime minister mentioned that a new capital gains tax (CGT) will be imposed on all shareholders selling shares in private companies.
Starting 1 March 2024, any disposal of shares will be subjected to…
Who issues the term sheet in a seed startup round?
The term sheet is a critical document that gives a ‘snapshot’ of the key terms and conditions of the proposed funding by an investor. It also serves as a ‘blueprint’ that will be used by the startup lawyer engaged to…
Non-accredited angel investor for your startup: Yay or nay?
“Should you accept an investment offer from a non-accredited angel investor in Malaysia?” “Do you need to get accredited as an angel investor?” “What if the angel who invested in my startup wasn’t an accredited investor? Will I get into…