HOTELIERS want short-term rentals (STR) to be properly regulated to prevent the latter from eating into their profit.
This was top of the agenda when Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing met key industry players in Penang.
“The minister was sympathetic and assured us that steps were being taken to ensure fair play,” said National Malaysian Asso- ciation of Hotels (MAH) vice- president Datuk Khoo Boo Lim.
They were told by Tiong that all STR and homestay operators would eventually have to apply for a licence from the ministry to enable better tracking and higher safety and quality standards.
STR refers to private homes that are booked online for brief stays by travellers.
They often operate outside the rules that apply to hotels, such as licensing, zoning, tax, and safety.
Transport issues were also raised, with the cumbersome gateway to KTMB at Penang Sentral given as an example.
“Tourists expect a smooth trip, so we urge the ministry to improve the infrastructure and connectivity,” said Khoo.
He said Tiong reminded bus companies to ensure drivers pass their drug test, rest adequately and speak several languages to help tourists.
MAH Penang vice-chairman Datuk Gulab Mahatam Rai asked for leeway for new hotels to hire staff while waiting for their official star rating.
Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran sought clarity on how the sales and service tax (SST) applied to convention centre rentals.
Association of Tourism Attractions Penang (Atap) chairman Datuk Ch’ng Huck Teng called for the early release of Visit Malaysia 2026 programmes and quicker approval of tourism grants to help operators plan promotions.
