Reportedly, starting from January 1, 2025, the Perak state government will implement an additional RM3 Local Service Charge (CPT) for visitors staying overnight in the state.
This new charge applies to each paid accommodation room per night.
According to Sinar Harian, Sandrea Ng Shy Ching, the Perak Housing and Local Government Committee chairman, announced that the fee is part of the Hotel Enactment 2023, which was passed by the Perak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) last year.
“Similar fees have already been introduced in several other states under various names and interpretations,” Ng stated.
“We have postponed the implementation date to January 1, 2025, to show appreciation for the visitors expected to boost Visit Perak Year 2024.” she said. ”
Ng shared these details during a press conference held at the Perak Darul Ridzuan Building on Thursday (June 20).
Joining her were State Executive Councillor for Tourism, Industry, Investment, and Corridor Development, Loh Sze Yee; Deputy State Secretary of Perak, Halizah Sipun; State Treasurer, Megat Amirul Zaini Jamalullail Megat Jamaluddin; Senior Deputy Director of Local Government, Mufidah Mahfodz; and Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Perak.
Ng explained that the additional fee is intended to support the state government’s efforts to enhance the quality of local services at tourist destinations throughout Perak.
In addition to the new fee, Ng announced the standardisation of hotel licenses under the Hotel Enactment 2023, set to begin on July 1 next year.
This mandate requires all operators of hotels, boarding houses, homestays, campsites, chalets, houseboats, and other lodging facilities to obtain the necessary licenses from local authorities (PBT).
“To allow sufficient time for engagement and education with the target groups, the government has agreed to provide a one-year grace period until June 30, 2025,” Ng said.
“During this period, we will offer advice and no punitive actions will be taken against operators who have not yet registered and applied for their licenses.”
Ng urged all accommodation operators to promptly submit their applications and obtain the required licenses from their respective PBTs.
She emphasised that although the enforcement of licenses will be deferred, compliance with the legal provisions outlined in the enactment remains mandatory.
She reassured operators that the license fees set according to the specified categories are designed to be manageable and not burdensome.
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