Penang enforces Private Accommodation By‑Laws, vows crackdown on unlicensed short‑term rentals
GEORGE TOWN, Aug 24 — The enforcement of the Private Accommodation By-Laws 2026 marks a crucial step in ensuring t...
Penang has implemented the Private Accommodation By-Laws 2026 to ensure short-term accommodation operators adhere to regulations, protect residents and tourists, and maintain fairness in business operations. MyBHA President Dr Sri Ganesh Michiel emphasized the importance of enforcement, stating that unlicensed operators should not be allowed to operate while licensed providers must comply with all legal requirements.
The by-laws, effective since August 1, give local councils the power to inspect, investigate, and close down premises violating the rules. Penalties for violations include fines of up to RM2,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both. Additionally, MyBHA supports local authorities' ban on short-term rentals in designated residential areas within the George Town World Heritage Site.
The association urges both Penang Island City Council and Seberang Perai City Council to establish a dedicated enforcement team, conduct regular inspections, promptly address complaints, and penalize violators. MyBHA also calls for cooperation from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and relevant ministries to identify and remove listings for unlicensed short-term rentals.
Written by urgent.news from Malay Mail's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
