M’sian Association of Hotels Says Tourism Minister’s Proposal for 23-Hour Stays is Impractical & Not Feasible

Previously, we shared how Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) Minister Dato’ Sri Tiong King Sing proposed a solution for the arbitrary check-in and check-out times implemented by hotel operators issue voiced by many dissatisfied Malaysians.

In a statement, Tiong urged hotel operators to adjust their check-in and check-out periods to ensure that guests receive at least 23 hours of stay per day.

Malaysian Association of Hotels calls Tiong’s proposal impractical and not feasible

Tiong king sing

Following this, the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) has expressed their opinion on the MOTAC Minister’s suggestion, calling it unrealistic and not feasible.

In a statement, the association acknowledged Tiong’s positive intent behind the proposal but said that the suggestion is “operationally impractical and would create a range of challenges for both hotel operators and guests alike”.

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MAH clarified that the standard check-in time for hotels worldwide is between 2pm and 3pm, with check-out times between 11am and 12pm.

The statement stressed that these hours are essential to allow “sufficient time for hotels to maintain high standards of cleanliness, safety, and room quality”.

MAH asserted,

“Expecting hotels to turn over rooms within an hour or two, particularly during peak seasons or with high occupancy rates, would severely compromise these standards.

“Attempting to implement such a burdening policy in Malaysia would not only lead to compromised cleanliness and quality control but would also push hotels to take operational shortcuts, which could harm the guest experience,”

MAH urges the Government to address the sector’s manpower shortages first

The association further elaborated that 23-hour stays are not a common practice in the hospitality industry as hotels must have adequate time to ensure rooms are thoroughly cleaned, sanitised and prepared for the next guest.

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MAH said that the situation is further exacerbated by the severe manpower shortages that the hospitality sector is currently facing, particularly in housekeeping and maintenance departments.

Hence, MAH calls for the Government to first address the manpower shortages before imposing a 23-hour stay standard.

So, what is your opinion on the matter? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

Also read: Tourism Minister Urges Hotels to Adjust Check-in & Check-out Times to Offer Guests 23-Hour Stays