As Malaysia continues to see growth in strata-titled developments such as condominiums, offices, and mixed-use buildings, the demand for qualified Property Managers has increased steadily. Property management is a regulated profession in Malaysia, and individuals who wish to practise professionally must follow a structured pathway governed by the Board of Valuers, Appraisers, Estate Agents and Property Managers (BOVAEP / LPPEH).
This article outlines the general pathway to becoming a Property Manager in Malaysia, from education to professional registration.
Step 1: Obtain a Recognised Academic Qualification
The first step is to complete an academic qualification recognised by BOVAEP. Common fields of study include:
- Property Management
- Estate Management
- Real Estate
- Building Management
- Facilities Management
- Or other related disciplines accepted by the Board
Academic recognition is important, as it determines eligibility to enter the professional training pathway.
Step 2: Register as a Probationary Property Manager
After meeting the academic requirements, candidates may apply to be registered as a Probationary Property Manager with BOVAEP.
At this stage, candidates are required to:
- Work under supervised practical training
- Be attached to a Registered Property Manager or an approved firm
- Gain hands-on experience in property and strata management
The probationary period is designed to develop practical skills and professional judgement.
Step 3: Complete Supervised Practical Training
During the probationary period, candidates typically gain exposure to:
- Building operations and maintenance
- Financial management and budgeting
- Collection of maintenance charges and sinking funds
- Strata governance under the Strata Management Act 2013
- Contractor and service provider management
- Communication with owners, residents, and stakeholders
Candidates are generally required to maintain training records or logbooks to document their professional experience in accordance with prevailing BOVAEP guidelines.
Step 4: Apply for the Test of Professional Competence (TPC)
Upon completing the required training period, probationary property managers may apply to sit for the Test of Professional Competence (TPC).
The TPC assesses whether a candidate:
- Has acquired sufficient practical experience
- Understands professional responsibilities
- Demonstrates sound judgement and ethical awareness
- Is ready to practise independently as a property manager
The assessment typically includes a review of experience and a professional interview.
Step 5: Register as a Property Manager
Candidates who successfully complete the TPC and fulfil all regulatory requirements may apply to be registered as a Registered Property Manager with BOVAEP.
Once registered, a property manager may:
- Practise independently
- Be appointed as a Managing Agent by JMBs or MCs
- Take full professional responsibility for property management services
Registration signifies readiness to manage properties professionally and in compliance with regulatory standards.
Career Development After Registration
After registration, property managers are expected to:
- Engage in continuous professional development (CPD)
- Stay updated with changes in strata law and regulations
- Develop expertise in specific property types or portfolios
With experience, property managers may advance into senior roles, manage large portfolios, or establish their own professional practices (subject to regulatory requirements).
Conclusion
Becoming a Property Manager in Malaysia involves a structured journey of education, supervised training, and professional assessment. This pathway ensures that registered property managers are competent, ethical, and prepared to manage properties responsibly.
For individuals interested in a long-term career within Malaysia’s property industry, property management offers a professional and rewarding career path.