The Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) has officially launched a mobile application (app) for e-Info service today to enable consumers to check and get business registration status online.

The launch was held at Kompleks Pusat Bandar Pasir Gudang, Johor Baru, and was opened by the Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister, Hamzah Zainudin.

The app, which can be uploaded for free from App Store (iOS) or Play Store (Android), will facilitate users to get certified information on business registrations online.

Prior to this, the SSM e-Info Service can only be checked via the SSM website at www.ssm.com.my beginning May 12, 2006.

Hamzah said the information that could be obtained via the service included business and company information, company charges and financial information for the last two years.

"With over nine million smartphones users in the country, we expect e-Infowill facilitate business transactions such as investment activities in the country and overseas, opening bank accounts, bank loans, certify validation and integrity of businesses and companies and business licensing/permit," he said.

At present, it is estimated that only 24,000 online businesses nationwide have registered with SSM.

Hamzah also said online businesses must be registered to avoid fraudulent purchases by consumers.

"If it was found that an online business is not registered, then the owner can be fined RM50,000 as well as two years imprisonment.

"If convicted for the second time, they will be fined RM100,000 and six years' imprisonment," he said.

- Bernama