Naypyidaw, February 18, 2025 – The State Administration Council (SAC) of Myanmar has officially enacted the Private Security Services Law (Law No. 4/2025), aiming to regulate and oversee private security service providers operating in the country. This law outlines licensing requirements, operational guidelines, and compliance measures to enhance national security while aligning private security operations with state law enforcement agencies.

Key Provisions of the Law

The newly enacted Private Security Services Law introduces a comprehensive framework governing private security firms, their employees, and service recipients. Some of the critical aspects include:

• Definition of Private Security Services: The law defines private security services as any entity that provides security for individuals, businesses, offices, factories, hotels, banks, transport systems, hospitals, and public events.
• Licensing and Authorization: Companies must obtain an official license to operate as private security providers. This also applies to training institutions offering security training programs. Additionally, organizations that employ more than 10 security personnel for in-house security must obtain a special permit from the authorities.
• Formation of Regulatory Committees: A Central Supervisory Committee will be formed under the Ministry of Home Affairs to oversee the sector. The committee will include representatives from various ministries such as Defense, Transport, Communications, and Law Enforcement. Regional and state-level supervisory committees will also be established to manage local security operations.

Objectives of the Law

The law seeks to ensure that private security services contribute positively to national security, law enforcement, and public safety. The main objectives include:

1. Enhancing National Security: Private security firms must coordinate with state security agencies to prevent security threats.
2. Ensuring International Standards: The law encourages the professionalization of private security services in line with international best practices.
3. Preventing Misuse of Security Services: To avoid unauthorized or unethical use of security services, strict oversight and enforcement mechanisms will be implemented.

Licensing and Operational Requirements

• Eligibility for Licensing: Only registered companies under Myanmar’s Company Law are eligible to apply. Foreign companies must also comply with Myanmar’s investment laws.
• Security Personnel Regulations: Employees must meet certain qualifications, including:
  • Minimum age of 18 years.
  • Good health and a clean criminal record.
  • Completion of an approved security training program.
• Use of Security Equipment: Private security firms must obtain prior approval to use surveillance devices, communication tools, or weapons. Unauthorized possession or sale of security-related equipment is prohibited.

Penalties and Restrictions

To maintain order and prevent violations, the law includes strict penalties for non-compliance:

• Unlicensed Operations: Individuals or businesses operating without a valid security license face fines and potential closure.
• Improper Handling of Security Equipment: The sale, rental, or unauthorized possession of security tools without government approval is punishable.
• Breach of Confidentiality: Security firms are prohibited from disclosing sensitive information obtained during operations.

The Private Security Services Law marks a significant step towards formalizing Myanmar’s growing security sector. By enforcing strict licensing, training, and compliance requirements, the government aims to enhance public safety and maintain national security while integrating private security providers into the country’s broader law enforcement framework.