Four laws to reshape Malaysia's housing sector under new policy

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's Housing and Local Government Ministry plans to revolutionize the nation's housing sector through four newly introduced or amended laws as part of the National Housing Policy 2026-2035. Minister Nga Kor Ming revealed the legislative reforms aim to modernize property development oversight, strata living regulations, and the rental market to secure long-term stability.

The four key changes include an expanded Property Development Act, a Building Managers Act, a Residential Tenancy Act, and amendments to the Strata Management Act 2013. Speaking at a press conference post the policy launch, Nga emphasized that the current Housing Development (Control and Licensing) Act 1966 no longer covers commercial properties, shop lots, or commercial projects. The Property Development Act will provide a comprehensive legal framework to propel Malaysia forward.

Nga also highlighted the importance of better managing high-rise developments as Malaysia's urbanization rate is expected to hit 85% by 2040. The ministry will launch the Building Managers Act and modify the Strata Management Act 2013 to tackle these complexities. Currently, Malaysia has approximately three million strata units spread across more than 27,000 schemes.

On the Residential Tenancy Act, Nga aimed to create a more balanced environment between landlords and tenants by protecting the rights of both parties. The proposed law will safeguard against arbitrary rent hikes and ensure a fair legal process during unit repossessions. Nga announced these reforms are based on five core principles from the 13th Malaysia Plan, focusing on affordability, sustainability, and market stability.