Hotel operators are urged to realign check-in and check-out times to ensure that guests receive a minimum stay of 23 hours per day.
The Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, stated that a 23-hour stay is common abroad and does not compromise cleanliness or the quality of accommodation. In fact, customers feel that the money spent is worthwhile for the services received.
“I understand if hotels want to save costs and make more profits; however, this issue is not solely about the profits of industry players. Customers who spend their money certainly want to do so with a happy heart.
“If customers are satisfied with what they spend, hotel operators will surely be happy with multiplied profits. Conversely, if customers receive an unsatisfactory stay experience, it gives the impression that the hotel prioritizes profit over service quality,” he said in a Facebook post today.
Additionally, King Sing assured that he would help resolve the labor shortage issue raised by hotel operators as the reason for longer cleaning and room preparation times, which causes concern about extending stay durations.
He stated that the issue would be discussed with the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN), with assurances already given to industry representatives at a meeting in Parliament last Thursday.
The issue of hotel stay times arose after users questioned the practice of some hotels setting check-in times at 4 PM, while check-out is at 11 AM the following morning.
As another solution, King Sing also instructed the National Academy of Arts, Culture, and Heritage (ASWARA) to help create courses related to cleaning and housekeeping training in hotels, with those who complete the training receiving certificates.
This can enhance service quality and work efficiency in hotels, as well as improve the professional image of Malaysian tourism.
