KUALA LUMPUR: Engagement sessions on the proposed Residential Tenancy Act with state governments and relevant stakeholders will begin this month and are expected to conclude by the end of the first quarter of next year.
In a written reply in Parliament, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the public consultation held in 2022 on the drafting of the proposed act revealed the need to reassess all aspects of the bill and to restructure follow-up actions in the drafting process.
"As such, feedback and insights gathered from these sessions (with the state governments and relevant stakeholders) will be considered in improving the bill's draft before it is finalised.
"This initiative aims to ensure that the interests of all parties are safeguarded and that the proposed act aligns with existing laws and regulations," he said in response to Aminolhuda Hassan (PH-Sri Gading).
Aminolhuda had asked whether the ministry has a timeline for drafting the act to protect the rights of both property owners and tenants in the country and the solutions by the ministry to address racial and religious discrimination in residential rental practices.
Nga said the new legislation aims to invigorate the rental sector, making it more competitive and facilitating the residential leasing industry with improved governance, without compromising the rights and interests of all parties involved.
"It seeks to protect the interests and rights of both tenants and property owners. The drafting of the bill will balance the rights and obligations of property owners and tenants without imposing controls on rental rates."
On the question of racial and religious discrimination in housing rentals, Nga said the Madani government is committed to the principle that all citizens are entitled to their rights and interests fairly, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.
"The constitution guarantees the fundamental rights of every citizen, regardless of race, religion and background, including freedom of speech, religion, access to education and protection under the law.
"In line with this principle, the proposed act supports a legal framework that is neutral and does not discriminate against any race or religion.
"Thus, any residential rental activity will require the agreement of all parties involved.
"Additionally, it provides mechanisms for resolving disputes that may arise in residential rental activities."