Malaysia Evicts Problematic Tenants - Legal Guide for Shops Owed Rent
What can you do if a tenant has been in arrears for over a year, with an outstanding balance exceeding RM200,000?
Today, using a real-life case, I will explain the legal process for evicting a tenant in Malaysia. 👇
1️⃣ Case Background
A shop in a prime area of downtown Kuala Lumpur commands a monthly rent of approximately RM20,000.
The tenant has been in arrears for over a year, with the total outstanding amount exceeding RM200,000. Despite the landlord’s repeated forbearance, the tenant has not paid a single cent.
2️⃣ Investigation Reveals a Shocking Truth
A site visit by the lawyer revealed the following:
The shop is actually operated by foreign nationals who regularly pay a monthly rent of 20,000.
The original Chinese tenant allegedly impersonated the landlord and illegally sublet the shop.
They collected the rent themselves but failed to pay a single cent to the actual owner.
3️⃣ Legal Action: File suit in 1 day, obtain eviction order in 1 month
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Prepare litigation documents | 1 day |
| The court approved the eviction order | About 1 month |
| From filing the petition to the completion of enforcement | About 2 month |
4️⃣ At the scene of the eviction order enforcement
A lawyer, court personnel, police officers, and a locksmith arrived at the scene together.
The shop was closed; the locksmith opened the back door in accordance with the law, and the police briefed those present on the situation. The entire process was conducted legally.
5️⃣ The foreign operator’s experience
The foreign operator stated that the lease was signed at a café and was “witnessed by a lawyer.”
Legal analysis: This was highly likely an irregular transaction involving a fake agent and a fake lawyer.
✅ Recommendation: Always sign contracts at a law firm and verify the identities of the parties involved.
6️⃣ Two key recommendations from the lawyer
For tenants:
Conduct due diligence before signing the contract.
Verify that the person signing is the actual owner
For landlords:
If a tenant falls behind on rent and refuses to vacate, there is no need to tolerate it.
Protect your rights through legal proceedings.
The law is a tool to protect those who abide by it—the key is your willingness to use it.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This content provides general information on Malaysian law and is for reference purposes only.
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