Public Services and Administrations in Malaysia
Successfully navigating the Malaysian administrative landscape: from understanding the Public Services+ program to concrete steps for your settlement.
Partners and Key Agencies
An Administration Driven by Excellence: Public Services+
In 2026, Malaysia has consolidated its desire to modernize its interactions with citizens and residents. The Public Services+ program is not just a slogan, but a reality mobilizing millions of public agents. Its objective? To make administration closer, simpler, and radically more efficient.
This program relies on the systematic collection of user feedback. Whether you are a Malaysian citizen or an expatriate who has chosen to live in Malaysia, your feedback has become the main lever for improving services on the ground.
"Administration is no longer a barrier, but a partner in your expatriation project." - Public Services Department.
8 Commitments
For a transformed daily user experience.
The 8 Pillars of Public Engagement
Each public agent is committed to respecting these principles to guarantee the fluidity of your procedures.
Welcoming Reception
Active listening and constant respect for every user, regardless of their origin.
Right to Error
Recognition that administrative complexity can lead to oversights, without immediate penalty.
Clarity of Information
Simplified forms and transparent communication on the documents to be provided.
Guidance
Personalized follow-up for complex situations or new arrivals.
Deadlines Respected
Commitment to precise processing times for each type of administrative request.
Transparency
Publication of agency performance results for citizen oversight.
Citizen Feedback
Real consideration of feedback to modify inefficient procedures.
Eco-responsibility
Massive digitalization to reduce the paper footprint of public services.
Structure and Organization of the Malaysian State
Federal Level
The federal government, based in Putrajaya, manages national affairs: defense, foreign affairs, finances, and citizenship. It is here that the country's main orientations are defined.
State Level
Each of the 13 States has its own government (led by a Menteri Besar or Chief Minister). They mainly manage land issues, natural resources, and local religious affairs.
Local Level
Town halls and municipal councils (DBKL in Kuala Lumpur, MBPJ in Petaling Jaya) handle daily matters: waste collection, park maintenance, local building permits, and commercial licenses.
01. Healthcare System (KKM)
Malaysia has a dual system. The public sector, overseen by the Ministry of Health (Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia), offers almost free healthcare for nationals. For expatriates, rates are higher but remain competitive.
Learn more about health- ✓ High-quality public hospitals (General Hospitals).
- ✓ Private insurance required for private clinics.
- ✓ Multilingual medical staff (English fluently spoken).
- ✓ Free public schools for citizens.
- ✓ Elite international schools for expatriates.
- ✓ Enrollments managed by the MOE (KPM).
02. Education and Training (KPM)
The Ministry of Education regulates a vast network. While public schools follow the national curriculum (KSSR/KSSM), many expatriates turn to the flourishing international system, offering French, British, or American curricula.
Student programsPublic Transport
Prasarana and RapidKL manage an ultra-modern MRT, LRT, and bus network in Kuala Lumpur. Fares are affordable via the Touch 'n Go card.
Transport guide →Utilities (Water & Elec)
TNB (Electricity) and Air Selangor/Syabas (Water) are the main providers. Most payments are made via mobile apps.
Utility budgets →Settlement Fee Simulator
Estimate security deposits for your utility contracts in 2026.
Initial Deposit Estimate
These amounts are estimates based on 2026 rates. Stamp duty fees of 10-20 RM per contract may be added.
Federal Administrative Framework
Sovereignty Ministries
Kementerian Dalam Negeri (KDN) - Interior
Manages immigration, national security, and civil registration. This is the main interlocutor for your visas and permits.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Wisma Putra)
Coordination with embassies and management of international treaties.
Development Ministries
Ministry of Transport (MOT)
Oversees JPJ (driving permits), APAD (land transport), and port authorities.
MITI - International Trade and Industry
The key agency for investors via MIDA (Malaysian Investment Development Authority).
Specialized Bodies to Know
Provident Fund
Retirement and forced savings.
Social Security
Protection against occupational accidents.
Tax Authority
Income taxes.
Telecoms
Internet and media regulator.
Administrative Survival Tips in Malaysia
1. Identity and Documents
Always carry your passport (or a certified copy) and your i-Kad (resident card) with you. In case of a check, these documents are essential.
2. The Language Barrier
Malay (Bahasa Melayu) is the official language, but English is omnipresent in administrations. Learning a few words of courtesy greatly facilitates exchanges.
3. Cultural Sensitivity
Proper attire (Smart Casual) is required in government buildings. Avoid shorts and flip-flops for your administrative appointments.
4. Private Health Insurance
While the public system is accessible, we strongly recommend private health insurance to benefit from shorter wait times in world-renowned hospitals.
They Have Taken the Step
Marc-Antoine D.
Entrepreneur in KL
"I was worried about Malaysian bureaucracy, but with the Public Services+ program, I was surprised by how quickly my business was registered. Everything is digitized via the MyGov app."
Sophie L.
Teacher
"Opening my water and electricity accounts took less than 30 minutes. The online deposit system is very transparent for foreigners."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it mandatory to use an agent for my procedures?
What are the opening hours of administrative offices?
Where can I pay my fines or bills?
Is the public health system open to tourists?
Can I drive with my French license?
What is the Indah Water agency?
Official Links and Resources
Ready to start your procedures?
Download our complete administrative checklist to ensure you don't forget anything upon your arrival in Malaysia.