m²
AP Andaraya
Agensi Pekerjaan Andaraya Sdn Bhd
8B, Jln Nirwana 1, Taman Nirwana,
68000 Ampang,
Selangor, Malaysia
Achieve full Act 446 workers’ hostel approval in Malaysia through a proven, step-by-step compliance framework aligned with JTKSM compliance steps for employer housing under Act 446. We assist employers with JTKSM application submission, documentation preparation, accommodation space planning, and inspection readiness — ensuring approval while avoiding penalties of up to RM50,000 per offence.
Pastikan penginapan pekerja asing anda memenuhi Malaysia foreign worker accommodation space requirements under Act 446, termasuk hostel design standards, room capacity limits, sanitation ratios, and safety compliance yang ditetapkan oleh Jabatan Tenaga Kerja Semenanjung Malaysia (JTKSM). Kami menguruskan keseluruhan proses — dari penilaian awal hingga kelulusan rasmi.
End-to-end Act 446 compliance management — from feasibility assessment to JTKSM certification approval. 🇲🇾 Trusted by Malaysian employers nationwide for first-pass approval success and audit-ready compliance.
Ensure your foreign worker accommodation complies fully with Malaysia’s Workers’ Minimum Standards of Housing Act (Act 446). Our specialists manage hostel approval, JTKSM certificate of accommodation, documentation submission, inspection preparation, and facility upgrades — helping employers remain compliant, audit-ready, and protected from enforcement action.
The Employees' Minimum Standards of Housing, Accommodations and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446) is Malaysia’s primary legislation governing foreign worker hostels, labour quarters, centralized accommodation facilities, and employer-provided housing. Enforced by the Department of Labour Peninsular Malaysia (JTKSM) , the Act mandates strict compliance with Act 446 hostel design standards, minimum space requirements, sanitation ratios, fire safety provisions, and documentation submission.
Failure to comply results in penalties for non-compliance under Act 446 hostel regulations in Malaysia, including fines up to RM50,000 per affected worker, hostel closure orders, foreign worker quota suspension, and criminal prosecution under Section 24D.
Act 446 compliance is a mandatory legal requirement for all Malaysian employers providing foreign worker accommodation. Employers must adhere to the Act 446 hostel checklist for JTKSM inspection, covering space allocation, hygiene standards, fire safety approvals, facility maintenance, and documentation accuracy.
Routine audits, unannounced inspections, and complaint-triggered enforcement by JTKSM Labour Department inspectors and Ministry of Human Resources Malaysia (MOHR) mean that non-compliant hostels face immediate legal, financial, and operational consequences.
These penalties represent the full scope of penalties for non-compliance under Act 446 hostel regulations in Malaysia:
Under Section 24D(1) of the Employees' Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities Act 1990, employers who provide foreign worker accommodation that fails to meet prescribed minimum standards are guilty of an offence and shall, upon conviction, be liable to:
Enforcement applies to company directors, facility managers, and authorized representatives responsible for worker accommodation decisions. Repeat violations result in enhanced penalties and mandatory imprisonment terms.
Agensi Pekerjaan Andaraya Sdn Bhd partners with Andaraya (M) Sdn Bhd to deliver comprehensive Act 446 compliance consultancy services helping Malaysian employers achieve and maintain JTKSM certification for foreign worker hostels. Our expert team provides end-to-end support from initial hostel planning through certification approval and ongoing compliance management.
End-to-end professional guidance to establish JTKSM-approved foreign worker accommodation facilities that meet all Act 446 minimum standards for space, sanitation, fire safety, and infrastructure from initial planning through certificate issuance.
Proactive compliance management ensuring your foreign worker hostels remain audit-ready and fully compliant, minimizing exposure to JTKSM enforcement actions, penalties, and operational disruptions from failed inspections.
Comprehensive technical documentation services ensuring all hostel plans, compliance certificates, and supporting documents meet exact JTKSM approval standards for first-time certification success.
For official Act 446 regulatory requirements, enforcement updates, and JTKSM certification guidelines, visit the JTKSM Act 446 Official Portal or contact your state Labour Department office directly.
Comprehensive step-by-step guide explaining how to get Act 446 workers’ hostel approval in Malaysia. This guide is designed for HR managers, compliance officers, and facility operators seeking to obtain the JTKSM Certificate of Accommodation for foreign workers in full compliance with the Employees' Minimum Standards of Housing, Accommodations and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446) . It outlines JTKSM compliance steps for employer housing under Act 446, required documentation, inspection preparation, and approval timelines—minimizing rejection risk and accelerating hostel certification across Peninsular Malaysia.
Agensi Pekerjaan Andaraya Sdn Bhd, in strategic partnership with Andaraya (M) Sdn Bhd, delivers end-to-end Act 446 compliance consultancy services covering hostel feasibility assessment, architectural planning and design, JTKSM documentation preparation, physical inspection coordination and support, compliance gap remediation, certificate renewal management, and continuous regulatory monitoring for foreign worker accommodation facilities nationwide.
You can apply for JTKSM hostel approval online via the official Act 446 portal: https://akta446.mohr.gov.my/login .
Total processing duration: 21-45 working days from complete application submission to final certificate issuance and delivery. Detailed timeline breakdown: Initial administrative document review (7-14 working days), physical inspection scheduling coordination (3-7 working days), on-site inspection execution (1 day), post-inspection compliance assessment and decision (5-10 working days), certificate printing, authorization signatures, and postal dispatch (5-7 working days). Processing delays commonly occur due to: incomplete documentation requiring resubmission, facility failing initial inspection necessitating rectification works and re-inspection, payment processing issues or receipt verification delays, major non-compliance findings requiring detailed remediation plans. Fast-track processing available for urgent foreign worker quota deadlines through direct coordination with state JTKSM director's office with supporting justification letter.
JTKSM Certificate of Accommodation has 3-year validity requiring renewal before expiration to maintain legal worker accommodation status. HR teams must initiate renewal applications minimum 60-90 days before current certificate expiry date ensuring uninterrupted accommodation legality and avoiding operational disruptions. Renewal process generally mirrors initial application but expedited for existing compliant facilities with good inspection history. Complete new application mandatory when: hostel undergoes major structural renovations altering room configurations, approved maximum worker capacity requires upward adjustment, property ownership changes or new tenancy agreement executed, premises physical address changes through relocation, different employer entity assumes facility management responsibility. Critical warning: operating foreign worker hostel with expired JTKSM certificate constitutes Act 446 violation triggering immediate closure orders, worker relocation mandates, and financial penalties.
Our Act 446 compliance specialists provide comprehensive assistance throughout the entire JTKSM application process: pre-submission compliance audits, professional floor plan preparation, documentation compilation, inspection coordination, and post-approval compliance management. We help employers achieve first-time certification success while minimizing delays and rejection risks.
Get Expert JTKSM Application SupportFor latest JTKSM hostel certification requirements, updated fee schedules, downloadable application forms, and state office contact information, visit the official Ministry of Human Resources JTKSM Portal or contact your nearest state JTKSM office directly. Professional consultation services available for complex compliance cases, large-scale centralized labour quarters (CLQ) projects, and multi-location hostel certification management.
Achieving legal workforce housing compliance requires strict adherence to Malaysian residential standards. Under the Employees’ Minimum Standards of Housing (Act 446), all premises must possess a valid Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC) or a Temporary Building Permit. Non-compliant structures—such as uncertified industrial warehouses or illegal extensions—face immediate rejection and strict enforcement penalties.
CLQs are the premier workforce housing solution for major industrial operators. These purpose-built campuses are designed specifically to meet international audit standards and local statutory requirements.
A flexible option for small to medium workforces in prime industrial zones like Selangor, Johor, and Penang. These units offer cost-effective proximity to manufacturing plants and logistics hubs.
Reserved for supervisory-level staff or skilled technicians. These units provide superior welfare standards but require navigation of strata management regulations.
Engineered for the plantation, agriculture, and construction sectors. These units balance site-specific operational needs with national sanitation and health standards.
| Building Category | Compliance Status | Critical Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Landed Residential | Pre-Approved | Valid CCC & Residential Zoning |
| Shophouse / SoHo | Conditional | Official residential conversion approval |
| High-Rise Apartments | Pre-Approved | Management Body (MC/JMB) Consent |
| Purpose-Built CLQ | Gold Standard | JTKSM-verified from architectural design stage |
| Modular Cabins | Restricted | Annual Temporary Building Permit (Permit Bangunan Sementara) |
Avoid costly enforcement penalties. Our compliance experts manage the end-to-end Act 446 certification process—from initial building audits to the final submission.
Malaysia’s Employees’ Minimum Standards of Housing, Accommodations and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446 – Latest Regulations) prescribes legally enforceable minimum floor space per foreign worker, maximum room occupancy limits, ceiling height thresholds, and ventilation requirements for employer-provided hostels. These standards are strictly verified during JTKSM on-site physical inspections, where measurements are taken using actual usable sleeping areas only. Employers, HR managers, hostel operators, and compliance officers must accurately calculate floor space per worker excluding bathrooms, corridors, storage areas, and fixed furniture footprints to prevent rejection, enforcement action, or penalties that may include substantial fines, immediate hostel closure, suspension of foreign worker quotas, or criminal prosecution under Section 24D(1).
Private and semi-private rooms provide improved comfort and privacy for foreign workers but are subject to higher minimum space standards. These room types are commonly allocated to supervisors, skilled personnel, or smaller worker groups where enhanced welfare standards are required.
Dormitory-style rooms are widely used for larger workforces in construction, manufacturing, and plantation sectors. While higher-density, these accommodations must still meet minimum space, safety, and hygiene requirements enforced under Act 446.
Room Dimensions: 5m × 3.5m = 17.5 m²
Deductions:
Usable Floor Space: 13 m²
Maximum Workers: 3
✓ Act 446 Compliant
Room Dimensions: 8m × 5m = 40 m²
Deductions:
Usable Floor Space: 35 m²
Maximum Workers: 11
✓ Act 446 Compliant
Failure to comply with mandatory space standards may trigger enforcement action under Act 446, including:
Act 446 foreign worker accommodation regulations impose mandatory requirements for individual sleeping arrangements, minimum bedding quality, bed spacing, and secure personal storage facilities to safeguard worker dignity, hygiene, safety, and overall welfare. These JTKSM-approved standards are rigorously verified during initial hostel certification, renewal inspections, and unannounced enforcement audits. Employers must ensure compliant bed layouts, approved mattress specifications, personal storage lockers, and documented bedding maintenance schedules to demonstrate continuous adherence to Malaysian labour accommodation and occupational health standards.
Each foreign worker must be provided with a clearly defined, dedicated personal sleeping space equipped with a compliant bed frame and mattress that meets JTKSM-approved Act 446 bed safety and dimensional specifications. Bed sharing between workers is strictly prohibited and is classified as a serious Act 446 violation, resulting in immediate inspection failure and certification rejection.
All bed installations should be verified against JTKSM specifications prior to inspection scheduling to prevent delays or rejection.
Employers are required to supply clean, hygienic, and adequate-quality bedding for every foreign worker in accordance with Act 446 accommodation regulations. Bedding condition, cleanliness, and replacement records are reviewed during inspections to verify health, hygiene, and welfare compliance.
Act 446 requires employers to provide individual, secure, and lockable personal storage facilities for every foreign worker to safely store personal belongings, clothing, and critical documents such as passports and work permits. Proper storage reduces theft risks, protects privacy, and ensures document security compliance.
All bunk beds installed in foreign worker hostels must meet JTKSM-approved structural safety, load capacity, and worker protection standards. Non-compliant or poorly maintained bunk beds result in immediate inspection failure and certification rejection.
Instantly calculate whether your foreign worker accommodation meets JTKSM Act 446 minimum space requirements per worker before submitting certification application. This free compliance calculator helps HR teams, facility managers, and procurement departments verify room capacity limits, assess space adequacy for private or dormitory rooms, and identify compliance gaps requiring facility modifications. Accurate space calculation prevents costly JTKSM inspection failures and ensures first-time certification approval for Malaysian worker hostels.
All foreign worker accommodations must provide essential facilities that comply with Act 446, JTKSM inspection standards, and local authority (PBT) regulations. Learn more about Act 446 compliance and JTKSM hostel certification requirements.
Proper sanitation is mandatory under Act 446 to prevent health risks and is a key focus area during JTKSM inspections.
Safe, hygienic kitchen and dining areas are required under Act 446 to ensure worker wellbeing.
Continuous utilities are mandatory for compliance with JTKSM hostel requirements.
Fire safety compliance is strictly enforced by BOMBA and checked during JTKSM hostel inspections.
Facilities supporting hygiene and mental wellbeing are integral to Act 446 compliance.
Non-compliance in any of the following areas may result in automatic fail status during JTKSM inspections. Ensure documentation and infrastructure meet Act 446 requirements:
Pass criteria require documented evidence, proper maintenance, and full compliance with Act 446 standards and JTKSM regulations.
Prepare your foreign worker hostel for inspection by Jabatan Tenaga Kerja Semenanjung Malaysia (JTKSM) under Act 446. Each card below highlights a key compliance area.
Full compliance with Act 446 and JTKSM regulations is required to pass inspections.
Understand your responsibilities under the Workers' Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446). These FAQs address common concerns about JTKSM hostel approval, worker housing standards, and compliance procedures in Malaysia.
Act 446 (Akta 446) is Malaysia’s legal framework requiring employers to provide safe and humane accommodations for their workers, particularly foreign employees. It outlines standards for space, hygiene, safety, and facilities. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties including fines and imprisonment.
Compliance means that housing for foreign workers meets the minimum standards required by Malaysia’s Labour Act 446. This includes proper sanitation, fire safety, ventilation, sleeping space, and gender separation. Employers must obtain JTKSM certification and keep documentation up to date.
All employers or parties responsible for housing workers—including those in manufacturing, construction, agriculture, services, and recruitment agencies—must comply with Act 446. This also applies to landlords or hostel operators who lease accommodation to foreign workers.
Our services include:
Yes. Employers are legally required to provide separate housing for male and female workers. This ensures privacy, safety, and compliance with the ethical housing standards outlined in Act 446.
Employers who fail to comply may be fined up to RM50,000 per offence, face imprisonment, or have their licenses suspended. Repeat offences can result in blacklisting or termination of foreign worker quotas.
Inspections must be carried out at least twice per month by a designated supervisor. All inspections should be documented, and any deficiencies must be addressed immediately to maintain compliance and worker safety.
Occupational Safety & Health (OSHA 1994) in Malaysia
Support for ethical recruitment, ESG reporting, and supply chain audits.