PETALING JAYA: Homestay bookings around Sepang and nearby areas are gradually climbing following the announcement of Formula 1’s (F1) return to Malaysia, although operators say demand remains modest for now.
“Not many yet as of now, but we are seeing steady growth in homestays from both local and international tourists,” said Malaysia Homestay Association president Datuk Sahariman Hamdan.
“Homestays are unlikely to be the main accommodation choice for many F1 fans, particularly international visitors who are expected to favour hotels, including higher-end properties,” he said.
He said current bookings in Kuala Lumpur and Sepang were mainly for holidays and education-related purposes, with F1-related demand expected to emerge closer to the race weekend.
“We will most likely see more bookings for F1 when the date gets closer,” he said when contacted.
The Bahrain Grand Prix will be held at the Sepang International Circuit from Oct 2 to 4, marking Formula 1’s return to Malaysia after a nine-year absence.
The race was relocated to Sepang as a replacement round following the cancellation of the Bahrain Grand Prix amid the conflict in the Middle East.
While operators have yet to adjust their rates, Sahariman expects the situation could change as the event approaches and demand strengthens.
He said some homestay operators could raise prices by 50% or even double their normal rates during the peak period.
“This is because maintenance and other operating costs may also increase,” he said.
However, he stressed that such increases had not taken place yet and operators were currently maintaining their usual rates.
Malaysia Kampungstay and Homestay Association president Zohaime Muhammad Sori said his association had yet to see a noticeable increase in bookings or enquiries following the F1 announcement.
“We haven’t made any F1 promotions for our homestays yet. We are still waiting to see the demand,” he said.
Zohaime said business was currently operating as usual, although he expected bookings to increase once visitors began making plans for the race.
Several homestays were located near Sepang and surrounding areas, which could provide an alternative for visitors seeking accommodation outside hotels, he said.
However, he said the homestay market was likely to benefit more from Malaysian visitors travelling from outside the Klang Valley than from international F1 fans.
“Most of our homestays will be locals from other states who choose to stay at homestays where it’s more affordable. Foreign visitors generally tend to opt for hotels,” he said.
