MELAKA - Hotel and homestay bookings in Melaka have surged ahead of the six-day-long holiday starting Feb 17, giving a boost to the state’s tourism sector and local businesses.
Malaysian Hotel Association Melaka chapter president Khairulnizam Kasim said the rise in bookings is particularly notable for the first two days of the holiday, with some hotels already fully booked.
"Based on feedback from hotel operators, occupancy rates are estimated at 40 to 60 per cent throughout the holiday period, with several hotels already reporting full bookings, especially at the start of the break,” he told Bernama.
The long holiday covers the Chinese New Year on Feb 17 and 18, the special 1 Ramadan holiday on Feb 19, and the Federal Territory of Malaya’s Independence Declaration Day on Feb 20, followed by the weekend.
Khairulnizam added that bookings this year were made earlier than usual, as Melaka remains a top domestic tourist destination, complemented by various state tourism programmes to attract visitors.
"Most bookings are from domestic tourists, with a growing trend of staying in hotels rather than returning to their hometowns or staying with relatives. Many hotels are also offering promotions and packages to encourage visitors to stay at least three days and two nights,” he said.
He added that hotel management had made early preparations, including hiring part-time staff, to ensure smooth operations and service quality.
"The long holiday also provides opportunities for small businesses and tourism industry players to enjoy higher sales, even though the sector still faces challenges from unregistered accommodations affecting licensed hotel revenues,” Khairulnizam said.
He expects Melaka’s hotel industry to continue performing well throughout this year’s school holiday and festive seasons, driven by rising domestic tourism and various state tourism events.
"Hotel occupancy rates are projected to reach 70 to 90 per cent during mid- and year-end school holidays, while major festive periods could see near-full occupancy, especially in key tourist areas such as Banda Hilir and the city centre,” he said.
Budget and mid-range hotels are expected to see the highest demand due to the rise in family tourists, while upscale hotels also benefit from events and conferences held throughout the year, he added.
Meanwhile, Melaka Homestay and Kampungstay Owners Association, chairman Datuk Akramuddin Abd Aziz, said homestay bookings have risen by about 30 per cent compared to normal periods, with some tourists booking on arrival, while larger groups usually reserve in advance.
"During festive seasons, most homestays reach full occupancy. Many also seek loans to expand their businesses,” he said.
He said most homestays currently have two to three rooms accommodating around 10 guests, and rising bookings have encouraged operators to increase capacity, provided they are registered association members participating in the state homestay cluster.
He added that providing additional facilities, such as internet access and swimming pools, can attract more visitors, but these amenities must be well-maintained to ensure guest comfort.
"Tourists visiting Melaka are not only interested in historic sites but also seek comfortable accommodations at reasonable rates, and homestays remain the best option to meet these needs,” he said. - BERNAMA