Penang will no longer allow new worker accommodation facilities in residential areas from Sept 1, as the state introduces tighter guidelines aimed at gradually shifting from Temporary Labour Quarters (TLQ) towards Centralised Labour Quarters (CLQ).

Local government and town and country planning committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye said the new guidelines would limit worker accommodation to commercial and industrial areas. TLQ permits issued under the 2024 guidelines will remain valid for three years and expire on Dec 31, 2027.

Existing worker accommodation facilities in residential areas will be reviewed if operators apply to continue their operations. The review will take into account factors including complaints received, with H’ng citing long-standing premises such as those in Taman Pelangi near Juru as examples.

Penang currently has 1,617 permitted TLQs under the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and another 1,492 under the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP). In comparison, the state currently has only two CLQs under MBPP and four under MBSP.

The new guidelines also introduce minimum space and toilet requirements. Dormitories must provide at least 3 sq m of space per worker, with one toilet for every 15 workers. For high-rise buildings, the minimum is 3.6 sq m per worker, with one toilet for every six workers.

Application fees are set at RM1,500 per unit for accommodation measuring 750 sq ft or below, and RM3,500 per unit for units measuring 751 sq ft and above.

Operators must first obtain a permit from the relevant local authority before applying for a Certificate of Accommodation from the Penang Labour Department.

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