Airbnb Urges Fair Regulations for Malaysia’s Growing Short-Term Rental Accommodation Industry
Malaysia’s short-term rental accommodation (STRA) industry needs fair and balanced regulations to sustain its growth while addressing concerns from traditional hotel operators, according to Airbnb. The platform’s Asia-Pacific public policy director, Mich Goh, emphasized the importance of regulatory clarity during a recent roundtable discussion on Malaysia’s tourism growth.
“We agree that some level of regulation is important,” Mich said, “but it’s also important to ensure these regulations are fair and balanced, allowing the industry to grow without unnecessary hindrance.”
Striking a Balance Amid Calls for Stricter Rules
The STRA sector has faced increasing scrutiny from the hotel industry, which has called for stricter rules on pricing, safety standards, and operational guidelines. In response, Airbnb introduced its Guide to Responsible Hosting in Buildings earlier this year, a framework designed to help strata hosts, property managers, and management bodies operate responsibly.
Additionally, Airbnb partnered with Zaid Ibrahim & Co and KPMG Law to develop reference building by-laws that offer condominiums and apartment buildings practical solutions for managing STRA activities effectively. “The adoption of clear STRA guidelines is crucial to fostering a dynamic and innovative tourism sector,” said Mohamad Izahar Mohamad Izham, partner at Zaid Ibrahim & Co.
Importance of National STRA Guidelines
With Malaysia set to chair ASEAN in 2025, Airbnb sees the introduction of national STRA guidelines as pivotal to strengthening public-private partnerships and building confidence among hosts, guests, and stakeholders. These guidelines aim to provide clarity for all parties involved while ensuring STRA operations are sustainable and beneficial for the tourism industry.
STRA’s Role in Malaysia’s Tourism Growth
Airbnb reported a 30% year-on-year increase in nights booked in Malaysia during the first half of 2024, underscoring the sector’s rising popularity. Kuala Lumpur ranked as the second most visited city in Southeast Asia, while domestic travelers favored destinations like Johor Bahru, Petaling Jaya, Penang, and Malacca.
As Malaysia allocates RM550 million to promote tourism ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the government aims to attract international visitors and encourage sustainable, diversified tourism practices. Mich highlighted that short-term rental accommodations would play a crucial role in these efforts.
“As we look ahead to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, STRAs and Airbnb’s community of hosts and guests will be instrumental in driving further growth in Malaysian tourism,” she said.
Conclusion: A Path to Sustainable Growth
Airbnb’s call for fair and balanced STRA regulations aligns with Malaysia’s broader tourism goals. By introducing clear national guidelines, Malaysia can foster an inclusive, innovative tourism industry that benefits both traditional and STRA operators while meeting the needs of modern travelers.
