GEORGE TOWN — The Penang state government should consider introducing rental guidelines to keep a check on homeowners here who rent their properties to foreigners, a government backbencher told the state assembly.
A.Kumaresan (Batu Uban-PH) said that renting – especially to Rohingya refugees – has been garnering public attention recently and requires a proper, prudent approach by the state government.
He acknowledged that refugees need places to live in after fleeing conflict in Myanmar, but noted that their presence in residential areas has sparked concerns about safety, cleanliness and usage of public facilities among locals.
“(Rental) guidelines can cover the tenant registration processes, documentation and supervision procedures.
“This responsibility can be taken by joint management bodies (JMBs) or management committees (MCs),” he said while debating the state’s 2025 supply bill in the legislative assembly today.
The PKR state lawmaker also suggested that local authorities conduct regular audits and monitoring of residences that are rented to foreigners. The authorities can inspect home conditions, cleanliness and identify the presence of unregistered tenants, he added.
“I would like to stress that the issue of renting homes to foreigners is a complex one that requires the cooperation and commitment from all (relevant) parties.
“With the enactment of clear guidelines and implementation of an effective monitoring system, I believe that we can achieve the balance between the rights of foreigners to seek protection and safeguarding the welfare of residents,” he added.
Additionally, Kumaresan also suggested that a Housing Rental Act be considered by the state government which could stipulate certain conditions on the number of tenants, cleanliness and building safety.
“I would like to request that the state government and local authorities look into the policy that is being practised in Singapore, (especially on) regulations for renting a flat or bedroom,” he added.
However, such law comes under federal jurisdiction, as stated by former housing and local government executive councillor Jagdeep Singh Deo in 2022.
Free Malaysia Today reported him as saying that the state has limited jurisdiction in dealing with such rental practices. Therefore, he urged the federal government to amend existing laws or introduce a bill to stop the rental of low and medium-cost (LMC) homes to foreigners. – November 25, 2024