Malaysia Anti Money Laundering Law |
A Detailed Guide to Bank Account Freezing Orders!

💡 Legal Quick Guide: Which Malaysian Authorities Can Freeze a Bank Account? What Does a Freezing Order Contain?

🏛️ 1. Which Malaysian Government Authorities Have the Power to Issue a Freezing Order?

It is not limited to the police.

The following enforcement agencies may issue freezing orders in the course of their investigations:

▪️ Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM)
▪️ Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC)
▪️ Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM)
▪️ Inland Revenue Board (LHDN)
▪️ Royal Malaysian Customs Department (Customs)
▪️ Immigration Department (Immigration)
▪️ Other legally authorised enforcement agencies

❓ 2. Why Would a Freezing Order Be Issued?

A freezing order is generally issued when assets or bank accounts belonging to an individual or company are suspected of being connected to an ongoing investigation.

The authorities may also suspect that:

▪️ The funds are proceeds of unlawful activities; or
▪️ The assets are linked to illegal transactions or criminal conduct.

📑 3. What Information Is Usually Contained in a Freezing Order?

▪️ Basic Particulars:
The individual’s name or company name, together with the relevant business registration number.

▪️ Account Details:
The name of the bank and the affected account number(s).

▪️ Core Restrictions:
A mandatory directive prohibiting the use, withdrawal, transfer, or movement of funds from the account.

▪️ Additional Restrictive Conditions (Depending on the Case):
A prohibition on transferring funds or assets outside Malaysia;
Restrictions on leaving the country;
Or even a requirement to surrender a passport to the Immigration Department.