In Malaysia, accessibility for persons with disabilities (OKU) in the built environment is a legal requirement rooted in key regulations. One of the foundational provisions is By-Law 34A of the Uniform Building By-Laws (UBBL) 1984, which mandates barrier-free access in buildings to ensure equal participation for everyone, including people with physical, hearing, visual, or other impairments.
This by-law remains a cornerstone of Malaysia's accessibility framework, complementing the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 (Act 685) and the Malaysian Standard MS 1184:2014 (Code of Practice for Universal Design and Accessibility in the Built Environment). Understanding By-Law 34A helps developers, architects, building owners, local authorities, and businesses comply with the law while creating inclusive spaces.
History and Introduction of By-Law 34A
The amendment introducing By-Law 34A was approved at the 35th National Council of Local Government (Majlis Kebangsaan Kerajaan Tempatan – NCLG) on 20 September 1990. This made it compulsory for buildings to provide access for disabled persons to enter, exit, and move within them.
Under Article 95A of the Federal Constitution, NCLG decisions are binding on all state governments. As a result, states gazetted the amendment over time:
- In Penang, it was gazetted on 11 November 1993 (State Gazette No. Pg. P.U 26).
- Other states followed suit, with gazette dates varying (e.g., some as early as 1991–1993).
The by-law applied immediately to new buildings. For existing structures built before the commencement date, owners had 3 years to retrofit and comply.
The amendment built on growing awareness in the 1990s, referencing standards like the Code of Practice for Access for Disabled People to Public Buildings (MS 1184:1991), later updated to MS 1184:2014.
Key Provisions of By-Law 34A
By-Law 34A (Building Requirements for Disabled Persons) states:
- Any building (or part thereof) to which the by-law applies must provide access to enable disabled persons to get into, out of, and within the building.
- Exceptions apply only to areas used mainly for inspection, maintenance, repair of services, fixed plant, or machinery.
- Facilities must include provisions such as ramps, lifts, wider doorways, accessible toilets, tactile indicators, handrails, and signage.
- Compliance must follow Malaysian Standards MS 1183 (Fire Safety in Buildings) and MS 1184 (Universal Design and Accessibility).
- "Disabled person" is defined as someone with physical, hearing, or sight impairment affecting mobility or use of buildings.
The by-law applies to most public and commercial buildings, including offices, shops, hotels, hospitals, schools, places of worship, recreational facilities, and multi-storey residential buildings (excluding single-family private homes in some interpretations).
Non-compliance can lead to fines, enforcement notices, or legal action under the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 (Act 133), under which the UBBL is enacted.
Current Status and Relationship with the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008
By-Law 34A is still in force today, with updates and references in state-specific UBBL versions (e.g., Selangor amendments in 2012 and federal revisions up to 2021). It forms the technical backbone for accessibility in building approvals.
The Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 (Act 685) reinforces this by granting PWDs the right to access public facilities, buildings, amenities, and services on an equal basis (Sections 26–32). It promotes non-discrimination and full participation but is largely non-punitive compared to UBBL's enforcement powers.
Despite progress, enforcement gaps persist—many older and even some newer buildings lack full compliance. Recent audits highlight ongoing challenges in public spaces, underscoring the need for stronger implementation.
Why Compliance with By-Law 34A Matters in Malaysia Today
- Legal Obligation — Local authorities must enforce it during plan approvals and inspections.
- Social Inclusion — Supports Malaysia's ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in 2010.
- Economic Benefits — Inclusive buildings attract wider users, boost tourism, and enhance property value.
- Avoid Penalties — Non-compliance risks fines, project delays, or retrofitting costs.
For developers and owners, early engagement with accessibility consultants ensures designs meet By-Law 34A, MS 1184:2014, and modern universal design principles—preventing expensive changes later.
How Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT Can Help
As specialists in disability access consulting Malaysia, we offer:
- Accessibility Audits to assess compliance with By-Law 34A and MS 1184.
- Design Advice for new builds, retrofits, and performance-based solutions.
- Compliance Certification for approvals.
- CPD Seminars on interpreting By-Law 34A, common mistakes, and TGSI use.
Contact us for expert guidance on making your building truly accessible and compliant.
Sydney Access Consultants (Malaysia) PLT Level 6, Menara Darussalam, 12 Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Phone: +60 3-2779 7117 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Visit accessconsultants.asia for more on By-Law 34A compliance, universal design Malaysia, and accessibility consulting services. Let's create barrier-free spaces for all Malaysians!