Malaysia: Authorities to crack down on illegal, unsafe rental rooms in shop houses

The Johor Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) in Malaysia is launching a crackdown on shop house owners who illegally convert their properties into cramped, unsafe rental rooms, often referred to as 'bird's nests.' These unauthorized modifications create densely populated living spaces that disregard essential safety standards, according to JBPM Johor Director, Assistant Fire Commissioner Siti Rohani Nadir.

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We will raid shop house owners who profit without considering safety aspects by making them narrow rental rooms, or 'bird's nests'.

Initial inspections revealed that some shop house floors have been subdivided into as many as 15 rental units, each measuring a mere nine to 12 square meters. Occupants reported paying between RM350 and RM500 per month for these small rooms. The modifications often lack proper lighting, have narrow access routes, and are missing crucial safety exits, significantly increasing fire hazards and posing risks to residents.

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The rental rooms are rented at a price between 350 to RM500 per unit, depending on the size and area of the rental room.

Siti Rohani stated that the enforcement operation, conducted in collaboration with the police and the Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB), aims to proactively ensure that these converted premises comply with fire safety regulations. The operation targeted nine locations within MBJB's administrative area. Violators will receive notices, and under the Fire Services Act 1988, owners will be given up to six months to submit renovation plans for approval. Failure to comply will result in legal proceedings.

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This indirectly invites danger, as the renovations were not approved because they did not comply with various safety aspects, including lack of lighting, narrow passages, and no safety access routes, among others.

One resident, a 52-year-old woman identified only as Dina, shared her situation. She has been renting a room for RM500 for two years after her divorce, finding it difficult to afford better housing on her approximately RM2,000 salary amidst rising living costs. She expressed that the cramped conditions are a compromise she has to make, highlighting the economic pressures faced by many low-income individuals.

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I live alone here and rent a room for RM500. My salary of around RM2,000 is not enough to get better housing, especially with the rising prices of goods.