KUALA LUMPUR: Airbnb’s host and guest community has generated approximately RM3bil in estimated direct economic impact in Malaysia last year.
Based on new survey findings and an analysis of internal data, Airbnb welcomed more than 3.25 million guests in Malaysia over the past 12 months (July 1, 2018 to July 1, 2019), which translates to a 73% year-on-year jump.
To date, there are more than 53,000 listings in Malaysia on Airbnb and Malaysia continues to be the fastest growing country for Airbnb in Southeast Asia for the second year running.
Speaking at a briefing today, Airbnb Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan general manager Mike Orgill said much of Airbnb’s growth in Malaysia is powered by travellers increasingly seeking more local, unique and authentic experiences.
In 2018, the number of Airbnb guest arrivals visiting off-the-beaten path destinations in Malaysia grew by 98% year-on-year.
Some of the areas with the fastest growth include Sibu (290%), Semporna (290%), Alor Setar (214%) and Tanjung Tokong (177%).
“The Airbnb community of hosts and guests make a large and increasingly important contribution to Malaysia’s economy.
“As our community of hosts and hospitality entrepreneurs grow, it generates more economic opportunities for local businesses and communities all across Malaysia.
“We are dedicated to growing tourism responsibly and sustainably, and we are committed to working with local authorities and destination marketing organisations in Malaysia to get it right,” he said.
According to Airbnb’s survey with more than 2,000 Malaysian hosts and guests, half of Airbnb hosts say that hosting has helped them afford their homes and 40% say Airbnb provides supplementary income that they rely on to make ends meet.
In addition, 45% of guest spending took place in local neighbourhoods where they stayed.
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