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Kulim Hi-Tech Park TPHTK worker housing ruling: What employers must know

September 29, 20253 min read

From 1 January 2026, the Kulim Hi-Tech Park TPHTK worker housing ruling will prohibit the use of residential premises within its jurisdiction as foreign worker accommodation. The Kulim Hi-Tech Local Authority (Pihak Berkuasa Tempatan Taman Perindustrian Hi-Tech Kulim, or PBT TPHTK) has implemented this policy to enforce Act 446 standards, which means employers must prepare to relocate affected workers to approved facilities.


This ruling aligns with the Minimum Standards of Housing, Accommodations and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446), and it carries important implications for employers operating in and around the Kulim Hi-Tech Park.

Why this matters

Companies that continue housing foreign workers in residential premises after the deadline risk significant consequences.

  • Legal exposure under Act 446 and local enforcement
  • Operational disruption caused by last-minute or forced relocations
  • Reputational risks if customer CSR audits highlight non-compliance

Taking proactive steps now is the only way to safeguard operations and protect compliance standing.

How to prepare your relocation plan

A structured approach will help employers make the transition smoothly. Start with a clear picture of how many workers are affected, where they are currently housed, and when existing tenancies expire.

Key steps include:

  1. Confirm headcount and tenancy timelines for all affected units.
  2. Shortlist compliant accommodation outside the Kulim Hi-Tech Park Local Authority’s restricted area.
  3. Conduct due diligence — check layouts, sanitation, safety systems and availability of documentation.
  4. Secure tenancy agreements early, supported with audit-ready compliance packs.
  5. Plan a phased move-in schedule to avoid disruption to production.
  6. Brief workers on house rules, safety measures and emergency contacts.
  7. Maintain monthly inspections and reporting to demonstrate ongoing compliance.

A nearby option for Kulim employers to comply with Kulim Hi-Tech Park TPHTK worker housing ruling

For businesses seeking a practical solution close to Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Osadi’s Centralised Living Quarters (CLQ) in Lunas Vision City, Kulim, Kedah offers a compliant, scalable alternative.

  • Apartment-style layout: 3 rooms and 3 bathrooms per unit, for up to 12 residents
  • Central amenities floor: medical room, halal dining facilities, laundromat, surau and convenience store
  • Capacity: ≈300 units across 3 blocks, accommodating up to ~3,600 residents
  • Audit-ready: tenancy confirmed by major clients, aligned with Act 446 and CSR standards


Located within Lunas Vision City, Kulim, the CLQ also gives workers easy access to eateries, laundromats, convenience outlets and a hypermarket anchor — all within walking distance.

→ View photos and details in our announcement on the CLQ

Moving forward

With only a few months before the January 2026 deadline, employers are strongly encouraged to act now. Securing accommodation early reduces compliance risks, prevents disruption, and helps maintain the trust of both regulators and customers.

Prepared by Ken Wooi
Business Development Team
bdteam@osadi.com.my