KOTA KINABALU: Homestays and any form of unlicensed accommodations must get their permits within three months or face closure, said the Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry.
Its assistant minister Dr Andi Md Shamsureezal Mohd Sainal said this decision was made following a task force meeting held in Semporna district on Tuesday.
He said among the main issues discussed were on ways to boost safety and tourism confidence towards Semporna’s tourism industry.
“One of the main issues that needs to be addressed is accommodation licensing, safety aspects and adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs),” he said in a statement.
He said from information gathered, there are a total of 190 operating accommodation facilities in Semporna, out of which 45 are legal, 59 are in the process of applying for licences and 86 still not taking any action to get licensed.
Andi said the ministry has set a three-month time frame for these accommodation operators to get their permits and other licensing to operate legally.
“Those who fail to comply will face legal action in our follow up integrated operation,” he said.
Andi said the ministry was also in the midst of coordinating and gathering all standard operating procedure (SOPs) from enforcement and technical agencies with regards to the safety and operations of tourism-related activities.
These SOPs will then be compiled and uploaded to the ministry’s official website, he added.
”This is to ensure that everyone has a clear understanding of the rules and regulations pertaining to tourism products and services, while those with questions can refer to the website for clarification.
“The ministry is committed to ensuring that Semporna remains a trusted and competitive tourism destination for all,” he added.
Andi said this is in line with the state government’s continued efforts to preserve the image of Sabah as a safe and preferred tourist destination for domestic and international visitors, where safety remains the top priority.
