Short-Term Rental Rules in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term renting is allowed in Kuala Lumpur, but the premises need a valid Accommodation Premises Business License from the local authority (PBT), and the business must be registered with SSM or SKM to register as Tourist Accommodation Premises with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) [2]. Operating without the required licence is an offence under the Tourism Industry Act (Act 482) [1].
Do you need a permit or license?
Yes, a valid Accommodation Premises Business License issued by the respective Local Authority (PBT) is required to operate short-term rentals legally in Kuala Lumpur [2]. The business must be registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), the Malaysia Cooperative Societies Commission (SKM), or be verified by an official letter if the applicant represents a Local Authority or a Government Agency [2].
Taxes
The published rules do not state this; ask the city.
Limits and restrictions
The premises must offer sleeping accommodation, lodging, or other structures to tourists for the purpose of accommodation [2].
Penalties
Operating a short-term rental without a proper license can result in penalties under the Tourism Industry Act, with fines up to five hundred thousand ringgit (RM500,000.00) or imprisonment for up to ten years, or both [1].
How to apply
Hosts must hold a valid Accommodation Premises Business License from the local authority (PBT) and a business registration with SSM or SKM before registering the premises with MOTAC as Tourist Accommodation Premises [2].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| License Needed | Business licence from the local authority (PBT), then registration with MOTAC [2]. |
| Penalties | Up to RM500,000 fine or ten years imprisonment, or both [1]. |
| Registration | Must register with SSM, SKM, or local/government verification [2]. |
FAQ
What happens if I don't have a license?
Operating without a license can result in fines up to RM500,000 or up to ten years in prison, or both [1].
Where should I register my business?
Businesses must register with the Companies Commission of Malaysia, the Malaysia Cooperative Societies Commission, or get verified by local or government authorities [2].
What types of structures are permissible for tourist accommodation?
Short-term rentals must provide sleeping accommodation or lodging structures to tourists [2].
Short-term rental rules elsewhere in Malaysia
- Short-term rental rules in Langkawi, Malaysia
- Short-term rental rules in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
- Short-term rental rules in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Running a rental in Kuala Lumpur
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- TINDAKAN PENGUATKUASAAN TERHADAP AKTIVITI PELANCONGAN YANG TIDAK BERLESEN – MOTAC (official)
- What are the application requirements for the registration of Tourist Accommodation Premises? – MOTAC (official)
Last checked: October 17, 2026. This page summarizes rules the government has published. It is not legal advice, and rules change: confirm with the local authority before you list a property.