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Real Estate

What We Do

Our Real Estate practice advises clients on a wide range of property‑related transactions, including acquisitions, disposals, development projects, and leasing arrangements. We act for developers, investors, financiers, landlords, and occupiers on high‑value and complex real estate matters across commercial, retail, industrial, and mixed‑use assets.


Our experience covers all stages of the real estate lifecycle, from site acquisition and development structuring to project implementation and asset management. We regularly advise on matters involving regulatory approvals, land use and planning considerations, and real property‑backed financing arrangements. The practice is focused on delivering practical, commercially grounded advice that supports clients’ investment and development objectives within Malaysia’s legal and regulatory framework.

How We Can Assist You

We advise clients on real estate transactions across acquisition, development, financing, leasing, and disposal stages. Our work includes structuring and documenting property acquisitions and joint ventures, advising on development and construction‑related arrangements, and negotiating commercial leasing and tenancy agreements.


We assist clients in managing regulatory and land‑related requirements, coordinating with relevant authorities, and addressing issues arising from zoning, planning, and property use. Our experience also extends to advising on real property‑backed financing transactions in collaboration with our Banking and Finance team. Throughout each engagement, we focus on providing clear, practical advice that facilitates efficient execution, manages risk, and aligns legal solutions with our clients’ commercial and investment strategies.

FAQs

What laws govern property transactions in Malaysia?

Property transactions in Malaysia are primarily governed by the National Land Code, together with state-specific regulations and guidelines. These laws regulate ownership, transfer, registration of interests, and dealings in land, and are supplemented by contractual principles applicable to sale and purchase agreements.

Can foreigners own property in Malaysia?

Foreign ownership of property is generally permitted in Malaysia, subject to minimum price thresholds and approval from relevant state authorities. The requirements vary by state and property type, and may include restrictions on certain categories such as low-cost housing or properties reserved for local ownership.

What is a Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) in property transactions?

A Sale and Purchase Agreement is a legally binding contract between a buyer and seller setting out the terms of a property transaction, including purchase price, payment structure, completion timeline, and conditions. It forms the basis for transfer of ownership and is typically subject to statutory and regulatory requirements.

What is strata title and how does it apply in Malaysia?

Strata title refers to individual ownership of units within a multi-storey development, such as apartments or condominiums. It is governed by specific legislation regulating subdivision, management corporations, and rights of parcel owners, including obligations relating to maintenance and service charges.

What is a charge over property and how is it used?

A charge is a security interest granted over property, typically in favour of a financial institution, to secure repayment of a loan. It is registered against the title and allows the lender to enforce its rights, including sale of the property, in the event of default.

What is stamp duty in Malaysian property transactions?

Stamp duty is a tax payable on instruments such as sale and purchase agreements and transfer documents. It is calculated based on the value of the property or consideration, and must be paid within prescribed timelines to ensure enforceability of the transaction documents.

What is Real Property Gains Tax (RPGT)?

Real Property Gains Tax is a tax imposed on gains arising from the disposal of real property or shares in property companies. The applicable rates depend on factors such as holding period and the status of the disposer, and are subject to exemptions and reliefs under Malaysian tax laws.

What is the difference between freehold and leasehold property?

Freehold property grants ownership in perpetuity, subject to applicable laws, while leasehold property is held for a fixed term granted by the state. Upon expiry, the lease may require renewal, subject to conditions and approval from the relevant authority.

What approvals are required for property development in Malaysia?

Property development requires multiple approvals, including planning permission, building plan approval, and compliance with local authority requirements. Developers must also adhere to zoning regulations, environmental considerations, and, where applicable, housing development laws.

What is due diligence in property transactions?

Due diligence involves reviewing the title, ownership, encumbrances, and regulatory compliance of a property before completion. It ensures that the buyer acquires good title and identifies any legal or practical risks associated with the property.


Why We Stand Out

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Quality

​​⁠Personalized service from a focused team of lawyers, capable of handling complex, high-value transactions. Agile and client-focused, offering premium expertise without the bureaucracy of larger firms.

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Experience

⁠Extensive experience engaging with government-linked companies (GLCs), public-listed companies (PLCs), and private corporations across diverse industries.
⁠Strong capability in handling compliance-heavy projects, corporate governance, and large-scale infrastructure or financing transactions.

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Global

Active involvement in LAWorld, a non-exclusive international legal network of nearly 70 independent mid-sized law firms across 100 cities worldwide.
⁠This membership gives MRCO clients instant access to vetted foreign counsel, local expertise, and seamless support for cross-border transactions and disputes.

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Digital

MRCO operates as a digitally forward firm, utilizing modern cloud tools and cutting-edge hardware and software. Its meeting rooms feature the latest meeting tools to ensure seamless connectivity, reflecting the absolute commitment to legal innovation in Malaysia today.

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Sustainable

MRCO is an ESG-driven law firm, embedding sustainability principles into its daily operations and legal advice.
Actively developing ESG clauses across multiple practice areas and guiding clients toward sustainable business practices aligned with global standards.

We Are Always Happy to
Assist You.

Contact

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+603-2092 4822

Address

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Penthouse, Menara I&P
No. 46, Jalan Dungun
Damansara Heights
50490 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia

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