Short-term rental operations have raised noise and security concerns among many homeowners in Selangor. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
SELANGOR has yet to finalise its proposal to cap stays at short-term rental accommodation to 180 nights, pending further engagement with stakeholders in the hospitality industry.
State local government and tourism committee chairman Datuk Ng Suee Lim said he received push-back from Airbnb operators, who were concerned that the move could affect their business.
“We are still in the midst of studying the issue.
“Some short-term rental operators have suggested that the limit be raised to one year instead,” he added.
Ng said hoteliers claimed they were undercut by Airbnb operators that were not regulated or subjected to similar fees by the authorities.
“We need to take into account the views of all parties.
“I have also received feedback about noise and security concerns arising from Airbnb operations in housing areas.
“Some countries have instituted an even shorter limit of 120 days on Airbnb operations,” he said.
He added that no date had been set for finalising the proposal, although he targeted for it to be done within the year.
Ng had said last year that the state government planned to cap the duration following complaints from hotel associations and that operators intending to rent their properties for more than 180 days would be required to apply for a planning permit.
He was met at his office at the state secretariat building in Shah Alam after a press conference on the Selangor Chinese New Village Festival to be held on Jan 24 and 25 at SJK (C) Pandamaran B in Klang.
Featuring 50 stalls selling food and drinks besides Chinese handicrafts, the event will include competitions with total prizes worth up to RM40,000.
On a separate matter, Ng said the implementation of Lestari Charge, which came into effect on Jan 1 this year, had taken place smoothly.
The sustainability fee for tourists, announced during the tabling of the state budget last November, is collected by accommodation providers on behalf of local authorities.
It ranges from RM2 to RM7, depending on the type of accommodation.
“So far, there has been no issue with the implementation,” he said.
“However, I have asked the local authorities to take a softer approach.
“During the first three months, they will not issue fines for non-compliance, but will instead educate operators on how to collect and make payments,” he added.
