SIBU: The Sarawak Central Region Hotels Association wants the government to come down hard on unlicensed short-term lodging.

Its chairman Johnny Wong said due to the inaction by the authorities, more and more owners are converting shophouses for the purpose.

“Many owners of condominium units are also getting into the act,” he said, adding this was a worrying trend.

Wong said inaction by the authorities was akin to approving such facilities.

“If they do, please make sure it is properly regulated, including requiring owners to obtain certification from the Fire and Rescue Department, just like licensed facilities,” said Wong.

“There must be a level playing field as licensed establishments have to pay several types of fees to local authorities,” he added.

Wong said licensed hotels would suffer as the new providers are eating into their business.