Malaysia's home-sharing industry is undergoing significant changes with the introduction of new guidelines by Airbnb. These guidelines are designed to ensure that hosts and guests engage in responsible practices, fostering a safe and trustworthy environment for all parties involved.
The Code of Conduct (CoC)
Airbnb's new Code of Conduct (CoC) for Malaysia's short-term rental accommodation (STRA) industry aims to set a high standard for hosting practices. This voluntary set of principles covers several critical areas:
Local Rules and Regulations: Hosts are encouraged to familiarize themselves with local laws and community rules. This includes obtaining necessary permissions and ensuring that their property complies with all legal requirements.
Health and Safety Protocols: Enhanced cleaning protocols, endorsed by the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA), are a cornerstone of the new guidelines. Hosts must ensure that their properties are cleaned and disinfected before the arrival of new guests, using solutions containing at least 70% alcohol.
Tax Obligations: Hosts are reminded of their tax responsibilities and are encouraged to visit the Malaysian tax website for detailed information.
Responsible Guest Behavior: The guidelines also outline expectations for guest behavior, promoting a respectful and courteous environment.
Health and Cleanliness
The new guidelines place a strong emphasis on health and cleanliness. According to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) by Malaysia’s National Security Council for Strata Management Sector, property owners must:
- Inform management about guests' arrivals for record purposes.
- Ensure that units are cleaned and disinfected before new guests arrive.
- Restrict the movement of visitors within the strata scheme to specific areas indicated in the visitor register.
- Limit the number of visitors during festivities to no more than 20 people per day, with gatherings restricted to immediate family members.
Safety Measures
Safety is a top priority in the new guidelines. Hosts are advised to:
- Ensure their properties are safe and secure for guests.
- Follow local safety regulations and obtain necessary permits.
- Provide guests with information on emergency procedures and contact details for local authorities.
Building Community Trust
Airbnb's guidelines are not just about compliance; they are about building a community of trust. By adhering to these standards, hosts can contribute to a positive experience for guests, which in turn can lead to better reviews and more bookings.
Rachel Chew from The Edge Malaysia highlights the importance of these guidelines: "The CoC aims to set a benchmark and standards for short-term rental accommodation in Malaysia". This sentiment is echoed by Airbnb, which states, "We encourage all hosts and guests to read through the CoC and to abide by these standards".
The new guidelines for responsible home-sharing in Malaysia represent a significant step towards creating a safer and more trustworthy environment for both hosts and guests. By adhering to these principles, hosts can ensure that they provide a high-quality experience that meets the expectations of their guests and complies with local regulations.
