Abstract

This article examines the renewed debate over rent regulation and traces its historical evolution in light of New York City’s recent historic rent freeze. It argues that rent regulation should not be viewed as inherently good or bad but should instead be assessed individually according to respective design and intensity. For Malaysia, the case for immediate rent regulation remains inconclusive, particularly in Kuala Lumpur, as there is lack of clear evidence to indicate a significant cost burden crisis among renter households. However, this debate serves as a useful case study for addressing the issue of rent affordability and access to shelter. This article argues that Malaysia should explore strengthening its rental market institutions, especially through the Residential Tenancy Act, to enable timely and targeted future policy interventions should the need arises.