KUCHING: The state government plans to carry out a study on the feasibility of property owners renting out their apartments and condominiums as accommodation for travellers, similar to that offered on Airbnb platform.
Airbnb, Inc. is an online marketplace for arranging or offering lodging, primarily homestays, or tourism experiences. The company does not own any of the real estate listings, nor does it host events; it acts as a broker, receiving commissions from each booking.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said if the study proves positive the Airbnb business style will boost not only the state’s housing sector but tourism as well.
He is confident it will benefit medical tourism as it offers shelter or lodging service with affordable price to house the patient’s families, especially those from rural areas coming to the city for medical purposes.
Noting the growing popularity of this business, which has become trendy in Indonesia, Australia and several European countries, the chief minister said Sarawak must seriously consider tapping into it.
“If we have the right infrastructure, tourists will not only look at hotels but they will want to stay in apartments and bungalows, especially if they are coming with big families,” Abang Johari said when launching the Block Pandelela at P’Residence in Batu Kawah here yesterday.
Abang Johari said he had advised the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to establish certain rules and regulations to allow owners to rent out their properties for tourism accommodation.
“The ministry, together with Ministry of Local Government and Housing, will undertake this study which will give incentives to our tourism industry.
“However, the renting must be within certain discipline and rules in order to meet the market requirements on safety, prevention of abuse and attractiveness,” he said.
He said what this means is that the state government would have to determine the terms and conditions, including the issuance of licence, to regulate the service.
Abang Johari further said the two ministries will study the rules and regulations implemented in Australia.
“We may also look at what our neighbours Singapore and Indonesia have,” he added.
At the event, national diving queen Pandalela Rinong was presented with a key to a condominium unit at the block as a gift in recognition of her achievements in the sport and for bringing glory to the country.
