Landlords face fines for renting out ‘grave-like’ rooms in Malaysia
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IPOH – Stern action will be taken against owners of premises who rent out “grave-like” rooms, said Malaysia’s Local Government Development Ministry.
Mr Nga Kor Ming, its minister, said the ministry would be working together with local councils and other agencies to monitor those involved in the issue that came to light last week.
He added that some of these rented rooms are narrow and small, with no proper ventilation or windows, which might lead to health and fire risks.
“For now, we are giving these premise owners a stern warning first before taking action,” he told reporters after attending the ground-breaking ceremony at the Pasir Pinji temporary market site on Sunday.
On Oct 10, news agency Sinar Harian reported that the rooms were initially built for foreign workers but were now mostly rented by university students, private-hire vehicle drivers and food delivery riders.
It is believed that all 38 cage-like rooms, measuring 126 sq m per room, were located at a double-storey shop lot in the Klang Valley.
The rent was between RM300 (S$90) and RM350 a month, inclusive of electricity and water supply.
Tenants shared a common lounge room, drying area, kitchen and Wi-Fi connection.
Mr Nga said several actions could be taken against the irresponsible premises owners, including the structures being demolished and being fined.
“There are relevant Acts that we can take, for example, the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 (Act 133) Section 79, where local authority or agencies may remove any partitions, compartments, ceiling and other structures.”
The owners of premises will have to bear the cost of demolishing the structures, the minister added.
“Under the same section, any party can be fined not more than RM500 if convicted and shall also be liable to a further fine not exceeding RM100 every day during which the offence is continued after conviction,” he said, adding that those with information about similar issues may lodge reports to the ministry.
Mr Nga said reports can be made to the Public Report Management System or through the i-Tegur mobile application. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
