Short checklist + step-by-step process to verify a security company in Malaysia:

1. Confirm the company is licensed by Kementerian Dalam Negeri (Ministry of Home Affairs, KDN)

   • Use KDN’s online licence-check (Sistem Semakan Lesen Agensi Persendirian / eSIMS) to verify the company name, licence type (e.g., Licence 2(a) for guards) and that the licence is current. This is the authoritative check for private security / investigation agencies. (eSIMS.moha.gov.my)

2. Check company registration (SSM) and corporate details

   • Verify the company is properly incorporated with Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM), confirm registration number, directors and registered address. (Ask the company for an SSM search extract or do it on MyDATA/SSM). No licensed agency should be evasive about SSM proof.

3. Confirm police/security vetting and training for guards

   • KDN requires security vetting and completion of the Central Security Guard (CSG) training program run with PDRM; ask for evidence that guards assigned to you are vetted and have completed required training. KDN information explains the vetting and mandatory CSG training. (moha.gov.my)

4. Ask for written proof of licences, permits and expiry dates

   • Request scanned copies (not just photos) of: KDN licence, SSM certificate, insurance (public liability, workmen’s compensation), any PBT (local council) permits, and professional certificates (e.g., ISO if claimed). Verify expiry dates against today’s date.

5. Check insurance and liability coverage

   • Confirm the company has adequate public liability and employee insurance and obtain a certificate of insurance showing coverage limits and policy period.

6. Inspect contracts, SOPs and escalation procedures

   • Ask to see their standard service contract, scope of duties, guard deployment rosters, incident reporting form, handover procedures, and escalation/contact list (including manager on-call).

7. Verify staff ID, uniforms and equipment

   • On-site, ensure guards carry valid identity cards, wear proper uniforms with company logos and name tags, and are equipped as per contract (radios, torch, logbooks, etc.). Cross-check guard IDs against KDN vetting status if possible.

8. Check reputation and references

   • Request client references (preferably similar sector: commercial, hospitality, manufacturing). Call referees and ask about punctuality, responsiveness, incident handling, and staff turnover.
   • Search online for reviews, complaints and news. Check industry associations such as the Malaysian Security Industry Association (PIKM) for member info and industry developments. (vom24.com)

9. Confirm compliance with employment and immigration laws

   • Ensure the company declares whether guards are Malaysian citizens or legally employed foreign workers, and that they carry valid documentation. Unlicensed or illegal hires are a major red flag.

10. Carry out an on-site trial and audit

• Arrange a short trial period or phased start, and do an audit after the first week/month: check attendance logs, incident reports, supervisor visits, and whether contractual KPIs are met.

11. Ask these specific questions (sample)

• “Can you show your current KDN licence and its expiry date?” (verify on eSIMS). (eSIMS.moha.gov.my)
• “Are my assigned guards KDN-vetted and trained under the CSG program?” (admin.moha.gov.my)
• “Please provide SSM company search, insurance certificate, and two client references.”
• “What is your incident escalation and replacement guard policy?”

12. Red flags to watch for

• Company refuses to show KDN/SSM/insurance documents, or provides inconsistent details.
• Very low price that seems unrealistic (may indicate unlicensed operations or underpaid/unvetted staff).
• High staff turnover, lack of supervisors, poor or no incident reporting.
• Reports or press of criminal incidents, or industry complaints.

Where to verify online (useful pages)

• KDN eSIMS licence check (Sistem Semakan Lesen Agensi Persendirian / Semakan Pengawal) — official place to confirm if the agency and guards are licensed/vetted. (eSIMS.moha.gov.my)
• KDN pages describing licence types, duties, application and training (Private Agency Act 1971 background / CSG training). (moha.gov.my)
• Industry association news (PIKM) for sector updates and recommendations. (vom24.com)

Final quick checklist you can follow right now

• Ask the company for: current KDN licence, SSM search, insurance certificate, two client references, copy of SOP and guard vetting/training proof.
• Cross-check KDN licence on eSIMS and SSM registration.
• Do an on-site inspection, confirm IDs/uniforms, request trial period and audit after start.

If you want, tell me the company name and I can help check the KDN/online records and point out any issues.