tenancy agreement

A rental agreement in Malaysia is a legally binding contract outlining the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants, including rental terms, deposits, tenancy duration, and dispute procedures. In 2026’s competitive rental market, a properly drafted and stamped agreement remains essential for legal protection, financial clarity, and smoother tenancy management.

In Malaysia, unpaid utilities are handled through tenancy contract terms, making clear clauses vital. Landlords may rely on deposit deductions, written notices, or Small Claims Court (below RM5,000). With Tenancy Act reforms anticipated in 2026, structured utility clauses and proper documentation are key safeguards.

Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, a tenancy agreement or a rental agreement protects the rights of both parties. This document comprises various terms including the tenancy period; deposit and rental amount; mode of payment; option to renew agreement; obligations of both parties; and something that is often overlooked – a termination clause.

Renting out a residential property is a great way to earn passive income. But beware! As a landlord, you could go to jail or be forced to pay hundreds of thousands of ringgit if your rental property is misused by a tenant for criminal or illegal activities.

What should you check before renting? Is there anything you shouldn't do? How to avoid problems with the landlord or rental property? To these questions and more, we have the answers so that you don’t repeat the mistakes made by tenants before you.

For a landlord, one of the top things they want to avoid is getting their investment damaged by a tenant. Conversely, a good lessee doesn’t want to spoil their rental home, as it means losing money, or worse: get taken to court. In this article, we will discuss the easiest way of avoiding this scenario.