Call for Specific Anti-Discrimination Law
A Malaysian lawmaker has called for legislation to end racial discrimination in the country’s housing rental market.
Bukit Bendera Member of Parliament Syerleena Abdul Rashid has urged the government to enact a law that would prevent racial discrimination in the country’s housing rental sector.
She made the call during the debate on the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13) in the Dewan Rakyat, explaining that such a measure would be in line with Malaysia’s goal of fostering national unity and upholding the principles of a fair, inclusive society.
She noted that phrases like “Malay only,” “Chinese only,” or “Indians not allowed” are still being used in rental listings, a sign that racial prejudice in housing remains a persistent problem.
Housing Still Affected by Skin Colour
She also questioned how the idea of meritocracy (the principle of giving people a fair chance based on their qualifications or effort) could be truly applied if people’s chances of renting a home were still influenced by their ethnicity.
She pointed out that, in reality, a qualified Malay graduate might lose out on a rental because the landlord prefers someone of Chinese ethnicity, while an Indian woman might be dismissed purely because of their name.
Youth Support for Change
Referring to research from the Architects of Diversity organization, Syerleena said the findings show that 68% of Malaysians, with most being young people, want a specific law to put an end to racial bias in the rental market.
She added that this reflects a clear demand from the younger generation for concrete, structural reforms rather than mere talk about unity.
Protecting Rights While Ensuring Fairness
According to Scoop, she also addressed concerns about how such a law would affect landlords, stressing that it would not take away their rights but would instead provide clear and ethical rules to ensure every Malaysian has a fair chance at securing a rental home.
She explained that the aim is to create standards that embody fairness and equality across Malaysia’s diverse communities.
Economic Pressures Make Renting More Common
Syerleena further noted that the rising cost of living and economic uncertainties have made renting a more practical choice for many young Malaysians, as buying a home has become increasingly difficult.
She urged that the Residential Tenancy Act be reviewed and strengthened to protect tenants from discriminatory practices and ensure that dealings between landlords and tenants remain fair and professional.
She stated that young people today want real changes in the system and view such reforms as vital to building an inclusive society.
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