Property
Torrens title, with state consent and price floors for foreign buyers
Peninsular Malaysia uses a Torrens system under the National Land Code 1965, where registration confers indefeasible title. Foreign acquisition requires state authority consent and is subject to minimum purchase price thresholds that vary by state, generally RM 1 million or above. Malay Reserve Land cannot be transferred to non-Malays at all.
Governing law
- National Land Code 1965 (Act 828) — Torrens registration for Peninsular Malaysia.
- Strata Titles Act 1985 — Subdivided building ownership.
In practice
Registration under the National Land Code confers indefeasible title. Foreign purchase requires state consent and meets a minimum price threshold set by each state. Malay Reserve Land is inalienable to non-Malays. Sabah and Sarawak have separate land ordinances and their own consent regimes. Minimum purchase thresholds for foreigners differ materially between states — check the specific state, not a national figure. Real Property Gains Tax applies on disposal at rates that step down with holding period, and is higher for foreign owners.