502 properties converted into 'bird's nest' rental homes

Authorities have identified 502 properties across Malaysia that have been drastically altered into 'bird's nest' style rental rooms since 2023. This trend, particularly prevalent in urban centers like Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Penang, and Johor, involves cramming numerous small rooms into single buildings to maximize rental income.

The modifications often disregard crucial safety regulations, including fire protection standards. The Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) reports that these converted premises can house between six and 30 rental units, significantly increasing the risk of tragedy in case of a fire due to compromised building structures and emergency exits.

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This situation risks inviting tragedy if a fire occurs because the building structure and emergency routes may not meet the established safety standards.

Despite rental fees ranging from RM250 to RM800 per room monthly, the owners' failure to obtain proper approvals and adhere to safety codes poses a grave threat to residents. Common violations include obstructed emergency exits, the use of flammable building materials, non-compliant electrical wiring, and a lack of fire safety equipment.

JBPM has conducted extensive inspections, issuing thousands of notices for fire hazard elimination. For the 'bird's nest' type conversions, 345 inspections led to 129 properties facing action and 603 notices being issued. The department warns that non-compliant owners face penalties, including immediate closure orders until safety requirements are met. JBPM plans intensified operations with local authorities and the police to identify and address these illegal conversions.

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For premises that have a high risk of fire that can threaten the lives of residents, an Immediate Closure Order can be implemented until all safety conditions are met.