SHAH ALAM, Nov 6 — The legalisation process for homestay operations in Selangor has been described as a timely and appropriate move to streamline the state’s tourism sector.
However, its implementation must be properly coordinated to ensure that small-scale operators are not overburdened.
Sabak Bernam Tourism Association chairman Subani Marzuki said the state government should take the operators' financial capacity into account and listen to industry players' views, to ensure the process runs smoothly and effectively.
One of the main issues requiring attention is the high cost of licensing fees, which should be reviewed comprehensively.
“This legalisation process is correct; the policy itself is sound because it provides proper procedures and governance. However, it needs to be aligned with the financial means of homestay operators.
“For small operators, registering with the land office alone can cost nearly RM4,000. If they only have two rooms, that is simply unaffordable.
"And that does not include registration with the local authority, which can cost another RM3,000 to RM4,000.
“The annual homestay licence itself costs around RM1,000, while penalties can range between RM800 and RM1,000. So these matters should be reviewed and discussed before the policy is finalised,” he told Media Selangor.
Subani, whose organisation consists of 20 registered members, also hopes that bureaucratic red tape can be minimised to make the licensing process more transparent and efficient.
Previously, state executive councillor for local government and tourism Dato' Ng Suee Lim said the state government will begin the homestay legalisation process in Sabak Bernam, the first district to undergo the initiative.
The move aims to ensure that operators run their businesses legally, comply with land-use regulations, and allow easier monitoring in the event of any untoward incidents.
