By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, March 7: Federal Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Dato Seri Tiong King Sing has slammed claims of plans to abolish homestays as ‘unfounded’.
He took to Facebook to emphasise and address misconceptions about the future of homestays in Malaysia, making it clear that the government’s commitment towards it is unwavering.
“The essence of our tourism policy is to nurture and support homestay as a model that has already demonstrated its great value in boosting local economies and fostering cultural unity.
“Any suggestion to eliminate homestay is not only baseless but undermines the extensive work and dedication invested in sustaining this vibrant sector,” he said in his post on March 6.
He went on to explain that homestays are not only an affordable alternative to hotels, but they are also part of Malaysia’s culture as they allow tourists to experience genuine Malaysian hospitality.
Tiong, who is also Bintulu MP and Dudong assemblyman, said that homestays also help to boost local industries and facilitate cultural exchanges.
“In promoting homestay, we are not only driving economic growth but also reinforcing social cohesion and mutual understanding among diverse communities, both locally and internationally,” he said.
He added that homestays remain a pivotal element in the federal government’s tourism strategy and that they will continue to invest in and promote it as a component of Malaysia’s tourism landscape.
“Our continuous commitment stands as proof that the narrative of abolishing homestay is nothing more than misinformation, and we will persist in our mission to harness tourism for economic growth and social inclusion,” he said.
Among the allegations included the abolishment of homestays. — DayakDaily
