Planning to put up a signboard for your business in Ipoh, Perak? You'll need a signboard license from Majlis Bandaraya Ipoh (MBI) before installation. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire application process, fees, and requirements for 2026.
About Majlis Bandaraya Ipoh (MBI)
Majlis Bandaraya Ipoh (MBI) is the city council governing the Ipoh metropolitan area in Perak. All businesses operating within MBI jurisdiction must obtain proper licensing, including signboard permits.
MBI headquarters at Jalan Sultan Abdul Jalil, Greentown, Ipoh
MBI Online Licensing Systems
MBI provides three online licensing platforms accessible from their official website at mbi.gov.my/pelesenan:
| System | Purpose | Link |
|---|---|---|
| e-Lesen | Signboard (papan iklan) and premises licensing | e-lesen.mbi.gov.my |
| MyNoRisk@MBI | Non-risky business license applications | via mbi.gov.my |
| Lesen Berisiko | High-risk business licenses (counter only) | MBI counter, Ground Floor |
MyNoRisk@MBI online portal — for non-risky business license applications
MBI Signboard License Fees (2026)
| Item | Fee (RM) |
|---|---|
| Signboard License (per signboard) | RM 50 |
| Business Premise License | RM 30 |
| DBP Bahasa Malaysia Verification | RM 10 |
| Processing Fee | RM 5 |
| Total (Single Signboard) | RM 95 |
Note: Fees may vary based on signboard size and type. Oversized signboards (exceeding standard dimensions) may incur additional charges.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for MBI Signboard License
Step 1: Prepare Your Business Documents
Before applying online or visiting MBI, gather these required documents:
- ✅ SSM Business Registration Certificate (Form 9/Form 49 or SSM e-Info printout)
- ✅ Copy of Business Owner's IC (MyKad) — front and back
- ✅ Business Premise Rental Agreement or Ownership Proof
- ✅ Location Plan — A4 size showing your premise location in relation to surrounding roads and landmarks
- ✅ Signboard Design Drawing with exact measurements (width × height in cm)
- ✅ Location Photo showing where signboard will be installed
- ✅ Cleared Assessment Tax Receipt (cukai taksiran)
- ✅ Previous year's signboard license (for renewals)
Sample location plan format — A4 size showing your premise location relative to surrounding roads
Sample cleared assessment tax receipt — required for all MBI license applications
Step 2: Design Your Signboard (BM Requirements)
MBI enforces Bahasa Malaysia language requirements on all signboards under the DBP (Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka) guidelines:
- Bahasa Malaysia text must be the most prominent (largest font size)
- Other languages (English, Chinese, Tamil) may be included but must be smaller than BM text
- BM text should appear on top or to the left of other languages
- All BM spellings must comply with DBP standards — verify at dbpsahbahasa.my
Your signboard maker should provide a professional design drawing with dimensions. Need help? Browse UMAKE's signboard catalogue — we provide free design consultation and can prepare your license submission drawings.
Step 3: Submit Application via e-Lesen Portal
For signboard licenses, use MBI's e-Lesen online system:
- Visit e-lesen.mbi.gov.my
- Register for a new account (first-time users) or log in with your existing credentials
- Select "Permohonan Lesen Papan Iklan" (Signboard License Application)
- Fill in your business details — SSM number, business name, address
- Upload all required documents (see Step 1)
- Upload your signboard design drawing with exact measurements
- Pay the application fee online
- Download and save your application receipt number
Step 4: MBI Site Inspection
After your application is submitted, MBI officers will:
- Review your application and uploaded documents
- Conduct a site inspection at your business premise
- Verify the proposed signboard location matches your submitted plan
- Check compliance with building setback rules and safety standards
- Ensure the signboard doesn't obstruct public walkways, roads, or other signage
Make sure your proposed installation location is clearly visible and accessible during the inspection. It helps to have someone at the premise during business hours.
Sample exterior premise photograph — take a clear photo showing your shop front and proposed signboard location
Step 5: DBP Language Verification
Your signboard design will be verified by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) for Bahasa Malaysia compliance:
- Correct BM spelling and grammar
- Proper use of standardized BM terminology for your industry
- BM text prominence meets regulations (largest and most visible)
The DBP check costs RM10 and typically takes 3-5 working days. Speed this up by pre-verifying your BM text at DBP Sah Bahasa portal before submitting to MBI.
Step 6: License Approval & Collection
Once approved:
- You'll receive an SMS/email notification from MBI
- Pay any remaining fees (if not fully paid during online application)
- Collect your signboard license from MBI or download from e-Lesen portal
- Your license sticker must be displayed visibly on the signboard itself
Step 7: Install Your Signboard
After receiving your approved license:
- Install the signboard exactly as shown in your approved design — any deviation requires a new application
- Affix the MBI license sticker in a visible location on the signboard
- Keep a copy of the license document at your business premise
- Set a calendar reminder to renew annually before expiry
Alternative: Walk-In Application at MBI
If you prefer applying in person:
📍 MBI Headquarters
Address: Majlis Bandaraya Ipoh, Jalan Sultan Abdul Jalil, Greentown, 30450 Ipoh, Perak
Counter: "We Serve" counter, Ground Floor, MBI Building
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Phone: 05-208 3333
Fax: 05-253 7396 / 05-208 3530
Email: mbi@mbi.gov.my
Website: www.mbi.gov.my
Walk-in applications are handled at the licensing counter on the ground floor. Bring all original documents plus one photocopy set. Take a queue number and wait for your turn at the "We Serve" counter.
Areas Under MBI Jurisdiction
MBI covers businesses within the Ipoh city council boundary, including:
- Ipoh City Centre — Old Town, New Town, Greentown
- Ipoh Garden — South, East, Canning Garden
- Bercham
- Gunung Rapat
- Taman Meru
- Falim
- Pasir Puteh
- Tambun
- Silibin
- Taman Ipoh
- Station 18
- Simpang Pulai
If your business is outside MBI jurisdiction, apply to the relevant district council (e.g., Majlis Perbandaran Kampar for Kampar, or Majlis Daerah Kinta Selatan for Batu Gajah).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Installing without a license — Fine up to RM2,000 and forced removal of signboard at your cost
- Incorrect BM text — Application rejected, need to resubmit with corrected design (costs time and money)
- Oversized signboard — Must comply with MBI size restrictions for your zone
- Expired license — Renew before expiry to avoid RM50 late fee penalty
- Wrong signboard type for zone — Certain areas restrict illuminated/LED signs
- Blocking public pathways — Signboard must not obstruct pedestrian walkways or vehicle sightlines
- Missing assessment tax receipt — This is the most commonly forgotten document
Signboard Types and Recommendations
Choosing the right signboard type depends on your business location, budget, and visibility needs:
| Type | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Lightbox Signboard | Shops with evening foot traffic | RM 800 – RM 3,000 |
| 3D Acrylic Lettering | Modern, premium appearance | RM 500 – RM 2,500 |
| Stainless Steel Signboard | Outdoor durability, corporate look | RM 600 – RM 4,000 |
| Vinyl Sticker Signboard | Budget-friendly, quick turnaround | RM 200 – RM 800 |
Need a professional signboard for your Ipoh business? View UMAKE's full signboard catalogue or WhatsApp us for a free quote. We deliver nationwide and can help prepare your MBI license application documents.
Renewal Process
MBI signboard licenses must be renewed annually. The renewal process is simpler than first-time application:
- Log in to e-Lesen portal
- Select your existing license for renewal
- Confirm details are unchanged (or update if signboard was modified)
- Pay renewal fee (RM50 per signboard)
- Download renewed license
⚠️ Renewal Tip: Set a calendar reminder 30 days before your license expires. Late renewals incur a RM50 penalty fee on top of the regular renewal fee.
Related License Guides
Operating in a different area? Check our other council-specific signboard license guides:
