Survey: Malaysians want regulations for short-term rental industry

KUALA LUMPUR (April 17): In a survey commissioned by Airbnb, half of the 880 respondents would prefer to have a national set of guidelines for short-term rentals.

The findings reveal that national guidelines are the preferred regulatory method for at least half of respondents (50%) over other methods such as building and community regulations (26%); and state and local regulations (24%). 

 “It is clear that Malaysians want a clear and consistent national approach for short term rental regulations. Clear and sensible guidance at a national level streamlines regulatory efforts for the various states providing the host community greater clarity and certainty,” said Airbnb’s head of public policy for Southeast Asia Mich Goh in a press release today.

“We have worked with governments across Asia and the world to craft and implement regulations that ensure responsible home-sharing, and we are committed to doing the same in Malaysia. We will continue to work collaboratively with the Malaysia Productivity Corporation on developing fair new rules that would further empower locals, grow tourism, and strengthen local communities,” added Goh.

Meanwhile, the same survey also saw an overwhelming majority (89%) of Malaysians support the Airbnb community model as a way to grow Malaysian tourism. 

Other key findings include:

• 74% of Malaysians agree that Airbnb allows Malaysian entrepreneurs to kickstart their own business and be financially self-sufficient, including 25% who strongly agree.
• 74% of Malaysians agree Airbnb helps diversify tourism into neighbourhoods outside traditional tourist areas, including 23% who strongly agree.
• 70% of Malaysians agree that Airbnb attracts more long-term travellers to Malaysia.

“The research reinforces that Malaysians want the choice of renting out their properties, in a respectful and responsible manner. They see that short term rental helps locals earn extra income and gives travellers greater and more affordable choice. Most importantly, it’s helping to grow tourism - a key pillar of the Malaysian economy,” says Goh.