SHAH ALAM, March 26 — The demand for homestays in Sungai Besar and Sekinchan has soared for Aidilfitri, with most accommodations fully booked till the end of Syawal.
The increased traffic reflects the popularity of these towns as tourism destinations, helping local traders earn more.
Cma Homestay operator Norhashimah Hashim, 39, said bookings during the festive season have been encouraging, with some tourists having booked their stays from as early as three months ago.
“This festive season, bookings are full till the end of Syawal. The location of my homestay is strategic; near the town and attractions in Sekinchan, which makes it popular among travellers.
“Thank God, I have been running this homestay for nine years, and it has become a side hustle with (earnings) of around RM2,000 during festive seasons or school holidays,” she told Media Selangor.
Haiseh Homestay owner Siti Aini Kaseh Mohd Misri, 52, said bookings have been full since Ramadan and are full till the end of Syawal, thanks to the many nearby facilities and activities for tourists.
“Festive seasons can bring around RM3,000, while (non-peak) seasons can bring over RM1,000, depending on booking rates and demand from tourists.
“We also provide various activities like fishing, a swimming pool, and badminton, which are the main attractions and the factor that draws tourists to choose our homestay,” she said.
Meanwhile, Nur Faridah Homestay operator Muhammad Khairilannuar Azmudin, 26, said demand for homestays in Sabak Bernam has gone up recently.
“Every day during the festive season, many make booking enquiries; some even made reservations two months ago. Thank God, since the second week of Ramadan till the end of Syawal, bookings are full.
“We also share our fortune with friends who run eateries and bicycle and motorcycle rentals, with each attraction impacting the number of tourists we draw,” he said.
