KUALA LUMPUR: A discussion to enhance the regulation of short-term rental accommodations (STRA) across Malaysia will be held between the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry and state authorities to address issues relating to the sector, says Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
The Tourism Minister said the initiative is aimed at fortifying the tourism accommodation ecosystem, adding that the oversight of tourism accommodation premises falls under the jurisdiction of the respective state governments.
"In our efforts to bolster the regulation and licensing of STRAs, we are planning to hold discussions with state governments, the Local Government Development Ministry, and local authorities," Tiong said in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday (Oct 29).
He also said that his ministry is looking into best practices to monitor online travel agencies (OTA) operated by foreign companies.
“According to existing guidelines under the Tourism Industry Act 1992, the ministry has established conditions and procedures for obtaining a Tourism Operation and Travel Agency Business License (TOBTAB).
"These guidelines currently apply to OTAs that are registered and operating within Malaysia.
"While we have clear guidelines for local OTAs, we are also exploring the best methods to monitor foreign OTAs," he said, responding to a question from Rushdan Rusmi (PN-Padang Besar).
Replying to a supplementary question by Vivian Wong (PH-Sandakan), who had asked about the ministry's initiatives to assist hotel industry players in dealing with increasing operating costs and wages, Tiong said that several incentives have been provided to the sector.
“This includes the tourism infrastructure scheme, tourism special fund, Penjana tourism financing, tourism tax incentives and registration projects,” said Tiong.
He also said that he had a preliminary discussion with the Human Resources Minister Steven Sim over concerns by the hoteliers about the rise of minimum wage.
“About the wages, we are still waiting for the hotel industry on ways we can work it out,” he added.
