Public users’ perception of Airbnb in Malaysia: should we regulate?

Abstract

PurposeDrawing from available literature and several case studies, this research aims to determine the criteria to be considered in shaping a framework regulating Airbnb. This paper will identify the regulatory frameworks of Airbnb from an international perspective and investigate the public perception on the criteria to be considered in shaping the framework regulating Airbnb. The criteria needed to be considered to regulate Airbnb are suggested accordingly.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative approach based on central tendency statistics was adopted in this research. Questionnaires were administered to the public to investigate the public's opinion on the criteria to be considered to regulate Airbnb. Finally, the criteria to be considered to regulate Airbnb will be determined. By using the mean analysis, this paper will tease out the ranking of the criteria that should be prioritized in shaping the Airbnb regulatory framework.FindingsThe results indicated that the criteria of “permits and safety” and “housing rules enforcement” outweigh the other “taxes” and “rule enforcement” criteria and shall be prioritized by the local authorities during the formation of Airbnb regulations in Malaysia.Originality/valueThis paper provides valuable pointers for policymakers before the expansion of Airbnb and before it becomes more difficult to regulate.