GEORGE TOWN – An assemblyman called on the Melaka Historic City Council to emulate Penang in banning short-term rentals at high-rise residential buildings in view of similar complaints.
Kota Melaka assemblyman Low Chee Leong said allowing short-term rentals at residential properties is unfair for residents as they have to put up with noisy guests, littering, and safety concerns.
“Residents complained their properties were also damaged and guests were found littering,” he said in a phone interview with The Vibes.
He added that the city council should re-examine the sales and purchase agreement signed under Schedule H of the Housing Development (Control and Licensing) Act 1966, where homestays or short-term rentals are not encouraged.
For example, he said there are several service apartments at Kota Laksamana built for short-term rentals.
“In view of the sheer number of such leasing concepts, the city council must regulate it.”
Penang exco Jagdeep Singh Deo had urged the state to ban short-term rentals, much to the chagrin of rental platforms.
He added that the federal government is waiting for Penang to proceed so it could be used as a reference for other local authorities.
Homestays legalised by the Tourism, Culture and Arts Ministry would be allowed to continue, as the ban is only applicable to those operating out of residential high-rise buildings, he said. – The Vibes, June 10, 2022
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