Financing a Malaysian Property as a Non-Resident

Can a non-resident borrow in ringgit?

Yes. Under Bank Negara Malaysia’s foreign exchange rules, a non-resident (other than a non-resident financial institution) may borrow in ringgit, in any amount, from a resident to finance activities in the real sector in Malaysia, including buying immovable property. Buying land only is excluded. Sumber: Bank Negara Malaysia, FAQ on Non-Resident Borrowing in Malaysia (Notice 2). Last checked 26 Sep 2026.

That rule makes a loan possible. Whether a bank actually lends to you, how much, for how long and at what rate is the bank’s own credit decision.

What to expect from banks

• Banks may lend a smaller share of the price to non-residents than to residents, so plan for a larger down payment. Ask each bank for its current figure.
• Expect to provide your passport, proof of income, bank statements and, if you have one, your visa or MM2H approval.
• Banks check your income against your existing debts, and may apply extra checks if you earn in another currency.
• Compare the full cost of each offer: rate, fees, lock-in period and early settlement charges.
• Both conventional and Islamic financing are offered by Malaysian banks. Compare total cost and terms.

Currency and sending money

A ringgit loan and a ringgit price mean exchange-rate movements change your cost in your own currency. Keep records of every transfer into Malaysia. Pay only into your lawyer’s client account or an account named in a signed agreement, never into an individual’s personal account. See scam awareness.

Check any lender or investment scheme you have not heard of against Bank Negara Malaysia’s Financial Consumer Alert List, which names entities that may have been wrongly presented as licensed. Sumber: Bank Negara Malaysia, Financial Consumer Alert List. Last checked 26 Sep 2026.

Steps

1. Ask two or three banks what they need from a non-resident, before you make an offer.
2. Get a written indication of the maximum loan.
3. Sign the sale agreement, and note the date the balance is due.
4. Let the bank’s valuer inspect. If the valuation is below the price, you fund the gap.
5. Have your lawyer check the loan documents before you sign.
6. Budget for loan legal fees and stamp duty. See costs of buying.

Sumber

• Bank Negara Malaysia, FAQ on Non-Resident Borrowing (Notice 2). Checked 26 Sep 2026.
• Bank Negara Malaysia, Financial Consumer Alert List. Checked 26 Sep 2026.