Short-term rental accommodation (STRA) operators will soon need to obtain a business licence from their respective local authorities before registering as tourist accommodation premises, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.

He said the requirement, agreed upon by his ministry and the Housing and Local Government Ministry, is aimed at strengthening regulatory control over STRA and tourist lodging premises.

“This is crucial because licensing and enforcement of accommodation premises fall under the jurisdiction of the local authorities (PBT),” he said in a written parliamentary reply to Rodziah Ismail (PH–Ampang).

Tiong said the ministry has completed a preliminary review of the Tourism Industry Act 1992 (Act 482) and aims to table amendments in Parliament by late 2025 or early 2026. The changes include streamlining licensing processes, introducing insurance protection, enhancing enforcement, registering digital platforms, and establishing a Tourism Tribunal.

The Planning Guidelines for STRA, developed by PLANMalaysia, are expected to be presented to the Cabinet soon, with nationwide rollout targeted by year-end.