Official Portal of the Kelantan State Government
Providing a rental home or premises to Unauthorised Foreigners Without Permission (PATI) is a serious offence under the Immigration Act 1959/63 in Malaysia.
Landlords found guilty of harbouring PATI can be prosecuted under two main sections:
✅ Offence Under Section 55E (Allowing PATI to Enter or Stay)This provision states that any owner, tenant, or person in control of any premises who allows any PATI to be present or stay in the premises is committing an offence.
📝 Punishable by:Fine: Between RM5,000 to RM30,000 for each PATI found.
📝 Imprisonment: Up to a maximum of 12 months. Both at once.
✅ Offence Under Section 56(1)(d) (Harbouring PATI)Individuals can also be charged for harbouring immigration offenders if found to have deliberately provided shelter to PATI to avoid their arrest
.
📝 Punishable by:Imprisonment: Up to a maximum of five (5) years.
📝 Whipping: Can be imposed up to six (6) strokes.
📝 Fine: A heavy fine may be imposed by the court.
⚠️ Advice to Landlords
As a precautionary measure, landlords are advised to always conduct thorough background checks on foreign tenants to avoid any legal implications. Ensure tenants have identification documents, a valid passport, and a valid work permit before handing over the keys.For further information on enforcement or to report suspicious rentals, you can refer to the official portal of the Immigration Department of Malaysia or check the established guidelines.