KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia targets 1.6 million people participating in homestay programmes in the country this year, targeting RM100mil in revenue, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Rural and Regional Minister said that his ministry will be working together with the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry and its agency Tourism Malaysia will also provide training programmes for homestay operators to enhance their services.
"Among the target of tourists for the homestay sector would be international exchange students, especially those from Asean countries.
"By participating in homestay programmes, tourists would be able to learn about local experiences and lifestyles," said Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister.
He said this after chairing the coordination committee on homestay programmes at the Parliament on Tuesday (Feb 4).
Also present at the meeting were Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, alongside other stakeholders.
Ahmad Zahid said that the coordinating committee would also address any issues faced by the homestay operators, such as infrastructure and basic facilities.
"We realised that there have been some issues with basic infrastructure and facilities at some homestays.
"The committee will help in addressing the issues and provide the facilities needed," he said.
Ahmad Zahid said in 2024, about 830,000 tourists had participated in homestay programmes and generated RM54mil in revenue.
Ahead of the Visit Malaysia 2026, he said that more promotions will be done for the programme as the country is also targeting tourists to visit rural areas.
