P Pinang negeri pertama kuat kuasa undang-undang tempat inap

Pulau Pinang has become the first state in Malaysia to enact the 2026 Small Independent Accommodation Establishment (PIAE) Act, effective since August 1st last year, to strengthen control and management of small accommodation establishments. The proposal for the small act was approved by the State Council Meeting on June 10th last and the state government gave a two-month window for permit applications.

The act refers to short-term accommodation activities not exceeding six months continuously without any relationship between owner and tenant, whether organized personally or through a specific platform with fees. Managing Director of Local Government and Urban and Rural Planning Jason H Ng Mooi Lye said that PIAE refers to short-term accommodation activities not exceeding six months continuously without any relationship between owner and tenant, whether organized personally or through a specific platform with fees.

"The implementation of PIAE is receiving positive feedback in line with the growth of the tourism sector and the high demand for short-term accommodation, providing a special alternative for families or groups requiring more space at a reasonable rate," he said during a media briefing. However, H Ng emphasized that its operation needs to be regularly and responsibly carried out to avoid disturbances to residents including noise pollution, traffic congestion, social issues, and increased maintenance costs.

He said that in total, 364 complaints related to public disturbance and safety incidents resulting from illegal PIAE operations were received by the Pulau Pinang City Council (MBPP) from 2020 to March 2021, while the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) received 24 complaints. Under the small act, every operator must obtain a permit from the local authority (PBT) and comply with requirements related to operation, cleanliness, safety, prohibited activities, and disturbance control.

The PBT is also empowered to conduct inspections, investigations, enter premises, and close premises if an infringement of requirements occurs. The act also grants powers to PBT to conduct inspections, surveys, enter premises, and close premises in case of violation of requirements. H Ng said that maintenance costs amount to RM50 per application, RM1,000 per year for premises with up to three rooms, and an additional RM200 per year for each additional room.

Additionally, PIAE fees amount to RM1,800 per year for each unit, while non-compliance with the small act could result in fines up to RM2,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both. PIAE activities are not allowed in government or charitable premises, health and child care centers, employee dormitories, private educational institutions, and low-cost, low-standard, rent-control, and Public Housing Projects.

H Ng stated that the areas authorized for PIAE operations are under the control of MBPP and MBSP, while in the island area, the relevant zone needs to align with the Draft Local Design 2040 and the Special Design Zone for George Town World Heritage Site.