GEORGE TOWN – Two hotel groups have come forward to support Penang’s proposed move to regulate short-term rentals at high-rise residential properties.
State Tourism and Creative Economy chairman Yeoh Soon Hin told the Malaysia Budget and Business Hotel Association delegation that guidelines are being drafted and hopes this can aid with the industry’s recovery.
The delegation was led by its president Emmy Suraya Hussein, deputy president Sri Ganesh Michiel, Perak chairman Zamari Muhyi, Negri Sembilan chairman Suresh Armugam, Kedah/Perlis chairman Datuk Noorazly Rosly and Penang secretary Lau Eng Leong.
“As compared to short-term homestays in high-rise buildings, hoteliers need to account for higher operational costs; from taxes, proliferated electric and water bills and staff emoluments.
“A proper regulation will not only solve social problems caused by short-term homestays in high-rise buildings, but more importantly, bring justice to the budget and business hotels.”
Meanwhile, newly elected Malaysian Association of Hotels vice-president Khoo Boo Lim said his association lauded the move by the Penang government.
“We are not against homestays, but they must be regulated to ensure safety of the occupants and their neighbours.”
He said homestays can be allowed but they must be regulated and licensed, preferably confined to properties such as service apartments or condominiums.
“Imagine each day, you have neighbours whom you do not know who they are. I have encountered owners who allowed the leasing of their units to outsiders who in turn organised alcohol or drug fuelled parties,” he told The Vibes.
Yeoh’s colleague Jagdeep Singh Deo had announced that the state will be looking into regulating short-term rentals in residential high-rise properties.
Airbnb had issued a statement welcoming some form of regulation, but also seeks assurance that their rent-sharing providers are not too burdened by the new guidelines. – The Vibes, May 31, 2022
