Malaysia slashes rental rates to aid small traders amid rising costs
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on local councils and state governments to cut rental rates from May 2023. The move follows concerns raised by a food stall operator in Rawang about rising business costs. The decision aims to ease financial pressure on small traders across the country. The push for lower rents came after a trader in Rawang highlighted struggles with increasing expenses. Anwar stressed that coordinated action was needed to support vulnerable groups facing higher living costs.
The reduction will apply to premises owned by federal agencies like MARA and UDA. Putrajaya has already confirmed lower rates for its own commercial properties starting next month. Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has also cut rental fees in the capital. Anwar acknowledged that rental policies are managed by state and local authorities. Selangor is now expected to introduce similar measures for small traders and food operators in the coming weeks. The government’s decision comes as part of a wider response to global supply disruptions. Officials hope the move will provide quick relief to businesses dealing with rising input costs.
The rental cuts will take effect from May 2023 for federal and agency-owned premises. State governments and local councils are now reviewing their own policies. The measure is designed to help small traders cope with ongoing cost-of-living challenges.
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