I would like to share my idea. There are two things that caused this to happen. First is the astronomical rent that many people can't afford. So people are forced to stay in one of those partitioned rooms. It is the only option for them. Second, it has become a business for some enterprising individuals. They would rent a flat, sub-divide the rooms, then rent them out. I know this for a fact because I was shown around to several flats by a single individual when I was looking for a room to stay in. It is really risky to live in those partitioned rooms. If you have seen one then you know what I am talking about. But then again, people are forced to stay there and take the risk because their housing allowance isn't enough to rent a decent flat. The solution to this is to regulate the rent. By the way, I am looking for a studio-type room to rent. I don't need a big space as long as it has a bedroom, a small kitchen, a bathroom and a separate entrance. Thanks.