I. Background

All goods with RF transmitting functions — including Wi-Fi modules, Bluetooth devices, routers, 5G terminals, and wireless remote controls — shipped by sea to Malaysia must satisfy the following three compliance requirements simultaneously to be cleared through customs:

• SIRIM Type Approval
• MCMC Spectrum Assignment
• ST COA Certificate (the core clearance credential): The SIRIM test report is a prerequisite for applying for the ST COA, but without the ST COA certificate, even a valid SIRIM test report will not enable customs clearance.

Malaysian Customs, in joint enforcement with SIRIM and MCMC, randomly inspects equipment labels and certificate codes upon arrival. Goods without valid certification, mismatched labels, or expired certificates will be directly detained.

II. Operational Process Essentials

1. Pre‑shipment Preparations: Obtaining SIRIM + MCMC + ST COA Certification (the most critical front‑end step)

Overseas factories cannot apply for certification independently; a locally registered Malaysian company must be appointed as the importer or authorised agent to submit the application. The certification cycle is typically 8–12 weeks. For first‑time shipments of new products, it is advisable to start the process 3 months in advance:

1. Technical documentation preparation: Prepare the BOM, circuit diagrams, PCB layout drawings, product specifications, and bilingual user manuals. For wireless devices, RF parameters must be provided. Test reports must be issued by a SIRIM‑recognised laboratory.
2. Sample testing: Complete mandatory tests including frequency band, radiated power, SAR (Specific Absorption Rate), etc. All communication equipment with networking capabilities (including pure cellular devices) applying for new certification or renewal must submit a complete IPv6 protocol test report.
3. Review and certification issuance: Upon passing the tests, submit the application to SIRIM QAS for review. Upon approval, the following are issued: SIRIM Type Approval certificate (valid for up to 5 years, subject to annual surveillance audits), MCMC approval code (valid for 3 years), and the ST COA certificate (typically valid for 1 year; low‑risk products may obtain 3 years, while high‑risk products may only receive 6 months). Renewal applications must be submitted at least 14 days before the expiry date.
4. Product labelling:

• SIRIM‑MCMC mark: Triangular mark with the words "MCMC", below which the identification number of the manufacturer (CID) or certificate holder (HID) is displayed. The mark must be no smaller than 8 mm × 8 mm.

• ST‑SIRIM label: The new‑style ST‑SIRIM label must be affixed directly onto the product body (not merely on the outer packaging) and must include the number, model, and manufacturer. The packaging must indicate the model, importer, and country of origin.

Important reminder: If the factory intends to apply labels directly on‑site, a separate factory audit authorisation from SIRIM QAS must be obtained. Only after passing the audit can the factory gain direct labelling eligibility. Unauthorised direct labelling at the factory will greatly increase the risk of detention upon arrival.

2. Booking and Export Customs Coordination

When handing over the goods to the freight forwarder, the factory must simultaneously provide scanned copies of the certification certificates for record‑keeping. The commercial invoice and packing list must accurately specify the complete product model, wireless functions, and HS code, and these must match exactly the model registered on the SIRIM certificate. For wireless devices with built‑in batteries, an UN38.3 test report and MSDS must be attached; wooden packaging must bear the IPPC fumigation mark.

3. Destination Port Customs Clearance Steps

• The local customs broker uploads the ST COA, SIRIM certificate, MCMC approval, Bill of Lading, Form E (for tariff concessions), and other documents via ePermit.
• Customs requires "three‑document consistency" (invoice, product body, and certificate must bear identical model numbers), with cross‑verification through the MyCCIS 2.0 system; any discrepancy will trigger inspection.
• After payment of customs duties and the 6% SST (Sales and Service Tax), clearance is granted. For regular imports, an e‑Permit can be applied for to expedite the process.