SHAH ALAM, Nov 20 — The state government is set to introduce comprehensive guidelines for constructing homestays, particularly on agricultural land, to regulate development and ensure compliance with existing laws.
State executive councillor for local government and tourism Datuk Ng Suee Lim said the local authorities have been tasked with formulating these guidelines to prevent unchecked agricultural land exploitation.
Homestays on agricultural land, like padi fields, are becoming increasingly popular, with a significant rise in such establishments, especially in the northern and southern regions of the state.
[caption id="attachment_380533" align="alignleft" width="419"]
State executive councillor for local government and tourism Datuk Ng Suee Lim speaks during the Selangor State Legislative Assembly session in the State Secretariat Building, Shah Alam, on November 20, 2024. — Picture by REMY ARIFIN/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
“While we support the growth of the tourism industry, the state government cannot allow operators to build on agricultural land indiscriminately.
“Operators must adhere to regulations to safeguard agricultural resources vital for food security,” he said, while also calling on local authorities to establish clear guidelines to assist homestay operators in padi field areas.
Ng was responding to Permatang assemblyman Nurul Syazwani Noh's supplementary question on Selangor's readiness to grant planning permissions to homestay operators on agricultural land, during the State Legislative Assembly session today.
In addition, the councillor urged all homestay operators to register with the Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry and Tourism Selangor, as this would allow them to be provided with insurance coverage and ensure operators meet safety standards for their premises.
This initiative aims to ensure that homestay businesses, which are increasingly competing with the hotel industry, operate legally and adhere to established standards.
— Bernama
