RECENTLY, concerns have arisen regarding homeowners constructing compact rental rooms in their houses, often referred to as ‘birdcages’ due to their diminutive size and limited living space.Now, the Local Government Development Ministry (KPKT) stated that they will take strict action against premise owners who provide such ‘birdcage’ rooms after it urged them to break down the rooms and return the premises to their original form.KPKT Minister Nga Kor Ming said that the matter is very serious because the modification invites mental health issues as well as safety risks in the event of a fire.According to him, the actions of a few owners to modify the space in the house so that it becomes very narrow and is given for rent are not conducive and is in some cases inhumane.“KPKT takes a firm stance and warns all homeowners who have carried out renovations without permission from the PBT (local authority) to change back to the original form or strict action will be taken,” he told reporters after completing the ground-breaking ceremony for the Pasir Pinji Temporary Market Construction Project today.
Nga added that action can be taken under Section 79, Roads, Drains and Buildings Act 1975 where under the said law, the local authority is empowered to demolish the building and all costs are borne by the owner of the premises.Moreover, he also pointed out that the fine does not exceed RM500 and the additional fine does not exceed RM100 for each day the offence continues after conviction.The controversy surrounding ‘birdcage’ capsule housing in Malaysia has ignited a surge of online discussion.Furthermore, social media users are engaging in widespread debate, with many expressing their dissatisfaction with the idea of renting a capsule for RM300 a month, likening the tight living conditions to birdcages.While some view the capsule living concept as an innovative solution to the affordable housing crisis, a significant portion of internet users are voicing their concerns and disappointment.The primary argument centres around the premise owner profiting from others’ hardships by providing such compact rental spaces.
Main photo credit: Bernama
