A BILL to protect the interests of landlords and tenants is expected to be tabled in Parliament next year, said Deputy Housing and Local Government Minister Ismail Abdul Muttalib today.

The  Residential Tenancy Bill will also protect tenants from unlawful rent hikes and evictions, and establish a legal framework to regulate the rented properties.

Ismail said the law will strike a balance between the interest of the landlord and the tenant, and to resolve disputes through mediation and going before a tribunal.

“It is hoped that with the enforcement of this law, the residential rental market will be affordable to the masses and the rights of the parties involved such as the landlord and tenant will be protected under the law,” Ismail told the Dewan Rakyat today.

He was responding to a question by Chang Lih Kang (Tanjong Malim-PH) on efforts to ensure that the rented properties are affordable for people.

Chang also asked why the bill will be tabled next year as there is a critical need now due to the Covid-19 pandemic which saw many lose their jobs and forced to take  salary cuts.

Ismail said the bill needs meticulous study before it could be tabled.

He, however, said there are other initiatives announced under the Prihatin economic stimulus package, including rental waiver for People’s Housing Project (PPR), which can help with addressing such problems in the interim. – August 25, 2020.