KUALA LUMPUR: Issues related to manpower and efficient housekeeping systems in hotels must be addressed before implementing a 23-hour stay for guests.
Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners executive director Shaharuddin M. Saaid said globally, hotels typically have check-in times before 2pm or 3pm and check-out times by noon.
"It is easy to say (to implement the 23-hour stay) but in reality there are many factors to be considered depending on hotels' capability to clean and prepare rooms, which require human resources," he said when contacted.
He said hotels in Malaysia, upon request by guests and if the situation allows it, permit guests to check in earlier or check out later than normal stipulated times.
Shaharuddin raised concerns about practicalities, such as what happens if a guest checks in at 1am and checks out at midnight.
"There must be a standard check-in and check-out time in order for hotels to operate and manage manpower efficiently.
"Post Covid-19, hotels are required to comply with standard operating procedures involving sanitising work for the room, which takes longer than it did in the past. It is necessary to have more housekeeping staff," he said.
He said hotel room rates are likely to rise due to increased operational costs associated with hiring more staff, including the upcoming minimum wage increase to RM1,700 by February 2025.
"Operational costs will increase due to having to have more staff, and by February 2025, the minimum wage will be increased to RM1,700. Hotels have no choice but to increase room rates.
"Nevertheless, if all issues related to manpower and a more efficient housekeeping system are resolved, hotels will no doubt be able and happy to offer guests a 23-hour stay, but only at the stipulated check-in and check-out times, not whenever they wish," he said.
Yesterday, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said hotel operators are urged to adjust their check-in and check-out times to ensure that guests enjoy a minimum of 23 hours of accommodation daily.
He had said a 23-hour stay is standard practice in many countries and does not compromise cleanliness or the quality of service, adding that instead, it enhances the value guests receive for their money.
Among others, Tiong has instructed the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (Aswara) to help establish courses on cleaning and hotel room maintenance, with participants receiving certificates upon completion.
He said this initiative will enhance service quality and work efficiency in hotels while elevating the professional image of Malaysia's tourism sector.