PETALING JAYA: FIABCI-Malaysia welcomes the government’s decision to continue the stamp duty exemption policy for first-time homebuyers purchasing properties valued at RM500,000 and below.
In a statement Saturday (Oct 11), the business networking organisation for real estate professionals said the initiative, reaffirmed during the tabling of Budget 2026 by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, would be extended until Dec 31, 2027, offering financial relief to aspiring homeowners.
It added that the exemption applies to stamp duty on both the Memorandum of Transfer and loan agreements, making homeownership more accessible, especially for young families, gig workers and the self-employed.
“FIABCI-Malaysia strongly supports the extension of this exemption, which directly reduces the upfront cost of homeownership. This measure is especially impactful for young families and middle-income earners, helping them to take the first step onto the property ladder.
“It also encourages healthy demand in the affordable housing segment, which is vital for market stability,” said FIABCI-Malaysia president Yu Kee Su.
He added that FIABCI-Malaysia also commended the government for introducing progressive housing initiatives in Budget 2026, which reflected a strong commitment to improving housing accessibility and affordability across Malaysia.
Yu also highlighted the RM672mil allocation for affordable housing under the Residensi Rakyat and Rumah Mesra Rakyat programmes.
“This substantial allocation reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive housing development, and provides quality homes for low- and middle-income groups.
“It’s a crucial step toward narrowing the housing gap and ensuring equitable access to safe and dignified living spaces,” he said.
He also lauded the government’s move to provide RM20bil in loan guarantees aimed at helping 80,000 first-time homebuyers secure financing, saying it addressed one of the biggest barriers to homeownership – access to credit.
In the statement, FIABCI-Malaysia also supported the expansion of rent-to-own schemes, which could also help bridge the affordability gap and reduce risks for both developers and purchasers.
“FIABCI-Malaysia also welcomes the special tax deduction of up to 10% (capped at RM10mil) for developers converting commercial buildings into residential units, which encourages adaptive reuse of underutilised commercial spaces.
“This policy not only revitalises urban areas but also increases housing supply without requiring new land acquisition. It’s a smart move toward sustainable urban regeneration.
“These initiatives are timely and strategic,” Yu said, adding that these measures can build a more inclusive and resilient property market for all Malaysians.
FIABCI-Malaysia believes that these initiatives not only addressed immediate housing challenges but also laid the foundation for a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient property ecosystem.
“The emphasis on affordability, financing accessibility, and urban regeneration reflects a holistic vision for Malaysia’s future,” it said, adding that it remained committed to working alongside government agencies, developers, financial institutions, and civil society to ensure that policies translate into meaningful outcomes.
“This Budget sends a clear message that housing is not just a commodity, it’s a cornerstone of national development and social well-being. We look forward to supporting these transformative policies and contributing to a thriving property sector that benefits every layer of society,” Yu said.
