Official Document Translation & Legalisation Map

Malaysia does not licence translators at the federal level. However, for official purposes:

Courts often maintain lists of approved translators/interpreters whose translations are accepted for judicial proceedings — details are available from the Malaysian Judiciary.

For administrative, visa, or civil matters, a translation prepared by a professional translator should be accompanied by an attestation (e.g., before a Commissioner for Oaths).

An official translation in Malaysia should include:

A signed statement confirming the translation is a true and accurate rendering

The translator’s full name and contact details

Commissioner for Oaths attestation (if required by the receiving authority)

Courts and government agencies may require the translator to be on a recognised court panel or to have the translation formally attested. Always check the specific authority’s requirements.

According to the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, public documents issued abroad **must first be legalised/attested** before they can be used in Malaysia. Documents in a language other than English or Malay must be translated into English or Malay and the translation must be certified before attestation. Official guidance on translation and attestation is available from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here: Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Attestation of Documents

Malaysia’s approach differs from formal civil-law sworn translator systems found in some countries. It relies on court panels, Commission for Oaths certifications, and institutional discretion (e.g., immigration, universities, courts).