GEORGE TOWN – A protest against homestays has surfaced in Bukit Gambir here, involving residents of a luxury condominium.
They said the building’s joint management committee and developer, as well as local authorities, have turned a deaf ear to their complaints for almost three years.
About half of the condo’s 480 units are leased to third-party agents for use as homestays, including under popular short-term rental service Airbnb.
The residents told a press conference here that the movement of outsiders in and out of the building has led to crime being committed on the premises.
Eugene Chan, 38, said he was unhappy from the start by the developer’s decision to allow units to be used as homestays.
“I have complained about the matter to the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) since 2018.
“However, I have yet to see a permanent solution to the problem. What the authorities have done, though, is provide excuses.”
He said there would be “busloads” of visitors on the weekends and during long holidays.
Under MBPP by-laws, he said, units in residential blocks cannot be used as homestays.
Lawyer Willie Ong, acting for the condo residents, said they plan to take legal action against local authorities.
He said he has sent numerous letters to MBPP, but the issue persists.
Koh Chee Keong, the newly appointed joint management committee chairman, said it will hold its annual general meeting at the Komtar auditorium on September 30, and urged homeowners to attend.
In 2013, Bukit Gambir bungalow owner Tan Kim Seng brought to the city council and media’s attention that a neighbouring house had been turned into a motel.
He said his family were on the verge of moving out as the crowds next door caused his wife to suffer anxiety attacks.
Attempts by The Vibes to get MBPP president Datuk Yew Tung Seang’s comments on the matter were unsuccessful.
Meanwhile, Lawyers for Justice coordinator S. Raveentharan urged local authorities to act against illegal homestays mushrooming in high-density neighbourhoods. – The Vibes, September 23, 2020
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