Buying property in Malaysia involves navigating state-specific price thresholds, evolving tax laws, and residency requirements. Below is the updated essential information for 2026.
Foreign investors are restricted from buying low-cost housing, Malay Reserved Land, or properties under the Bumiputera quota. The minimum purchase price depends on the state and property type:
| State / Territory | General Threshold | MM2H / Special Zones |
| Kuala Lumpur (e.g., Jewel by Oxley KLCC) | RM 1,000,000 | RM 600,000 (Silver Tier) |
| Selangor | RM 2,000,000 (Landed) / RM 1M (High-rise) | RM 1,000,000 |
| Penang (Island) | RM 3,000,000 (Landed) / RM 800k (Condo) | RM 1,000,000 |
| Johor | RM 1,000,000 | RM 600,000 |
| Sarawak & Sabah | RM 500,000 – RM 750,000 | RM 300,000 |
Note: Integrated developments and mixed-use projects in Kuala Lumpur often represent the most accessible high-value investments for international buyers.
When budgeting for a property, expect to pay approximately 5% to 8% in addition to the purchase price for legal and government fees.
Stamp Duty (Memorandum of Transfer): Effective January 1, 2026, the stamp duty for foreign buyers is a flat rate of 8% for residential property transfers.
Legal Fees: Regulated by the Solicitors Remuneration Order:
First RM 500,000: 1.25%
Subsequent value up to RM 7.5 million: 1.0%
State Consent Fee: Foreigners must obtain "State Authority Consent" before a title transfer. This varies by state, ranging from a flat fee to a percentage of the purchase price.
Loan Stamp Duty: A flat 0.5% of the total loan amount.
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program is a three-tier system. Purchasing a property—such as a luxury branded residence—is now a mandatory requirement for approved applicants:
Silver Tier: RM 500k Fixed Deposit; Property purchase min. RM 600k; 5-year visa.
Gold Tier: RM 2M Fixed Deposit; Property purchase min. RM 1M; 15-year visa.
Platinum Tier: RM 5M Fixed Deposit; Property purchase min. RM 2M; 20-year visa (includes work/business rights).
For high-net-worth individuals, the Premium Visa Programme (PVIP) offers a 20-year residency with no minimum stay requirement, ideal for global professionals.
Real Property Gains Tax (RPGT): Selling within the first 5 years of ownership incurs a 30% tax on profit. From the 6th year onwards, the rate reduces to 10%.
Annual Taxes: Property owners are responsible for Assessment Rates (bi-annual local council tax) and Quit Rent (annual land tax).
Contact Ang Realty Resources today for a professional consultation on luxury developments and investment opportunities in Kuala Lumpur.
The information regarding foreign buyer thresholds was compiled on May 5, 2026, based on a comprehensive review of state authority references, legal commentaries, and prevailing market guides available at that time.
Please be advised of the following:
Variable Regulations: Property rules are subject to change based on the specific state, type of property, title conditions, buyer profile, and current administrative practices.
Verification Required: Prospective buyers are strongly encouraged to verify all current requirements with the relevant State Land Office (PTG), local authorities, or a qualified conveyancing solicitor before entering into any formal agreements or making deposit payments.
Liability Limitation: Ang Realty Resources does not assume liability for any losses resulting from the use of third-party information that may be outdated, incomplete, or inaccurate.
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