Forced to live in death traps
Experts warn that many Malaysian workers are living in dangerous, overcrowded conditions in buildings not designed for residential use. Despite existing laws, poor enforcement and landlord negligence continue to put lives at risk.
Why it matters
Highlights systemic failures in occupational safety and housing standards that lead to preventable tragedies.
Owners must give workers safe housing, not just collect rent
PETALING JAYA: Cramped, makeshift accommodation above shops and restaurants will continue to put lives at risk unless building owners, employers and authorities get serious about worker housing, experts warn.
Malaysian Federation for Occupational Safety and Health chairman Dr Abu Hasan Samad said some owners appear more interested in rental income than safety.
He said that, assuming a building has its occupation certificate, they (owners/sublet owners) can carve up any available space into rooms and “just collect the money”.
“In many cases, premises originally approved for commercial use are quietly converted into living quarters, with upper floors above eateries and small factories housing 10 or more people in conditions never designed for residential occupancy.
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