PETALING JAYA, May 14 — The Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) has encouraged all local authorities (PBTs) throughout Malaysia to consider lowering rental rates for business premises, stalls, and food courts under their management until the end of 2026.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the recommendation was made following a proposal by the National Economic Action Council (MTEN). The proposal suggests that local authorities provide suitable rental incentives as an immediate measure to help hawkers and small traders operating in council-owned or council-managed premises.
According to Nga, the initiative is designed to reduce the increasing operational costs faced by local traders while supporting economic activities at the grassroots level.
He explained that the rental reduction could also help businesses continue operating, protect employment opportunities, and stabilise the prices of goods and services for consumers.
KPKT also praised several local authorities that had already implemented similar initiatives. Among them was Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), which announced rental reductions of up to 50% for more than 10,000 traders operating at hawker centres and selected council premises.
The rental reduction introduced by DBKL took effect on April 1 and will continue until Dec 31, 2027. The ministry described the move as an example of proactive support for small business operators affected by rising living and operating costs.
In addition, KPKT stated that this rental relief initiative complements several broader government assistance programmes, including Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR), Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA), and the BUDI Madani initiatives such as BUDI Diesel and BUDI95.
The ministry added that it would continue working closely with local authorities to identify suitable implementation methods based on each council’s financial capabilities and local economic conditions.
