Homestay tales of horror from the hood

 

Assaulted: Residents with pictures of security guards allegedly attacked by apartment guests after they were warned to make less noise. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star

GEORGE TOWN: While many are elated with the return of tourism after two years, residents at some housing areas fear they will once again have to deal with nuisance illegal homestays.

They don’t care for the noise pollution, invasion of privacy and rubbish left behind.

Remembering several “nightmare episodes” in Batu Ferringhi, a man who wished to be known only as Tan BL, said it was the crowd and noise that made the neighbourhood an uncomfortable place to live.

“They came in big groups to stay in the four-bedroom semi-detached houses here.

“But we never expected to see a 40-seater bus unloading its passengers for a stay at a single house. How could they all fit?” said Tan.

Another incident that left him and other residents fuming was when some young people brought their own sound system.

Tan, who has been living there for 13 years, said the past two years have been peaceful, but he feared a repeat of old issues.

“There have been many hotels and resorts built here over the past 20 years or so, but these issues only started after the homes were turned into homestays.

“During the recent Hari Raya holiday, a family rented a unit to host a barbecue and their guests arrived in eight cars.

“There was no noise or inconvenience, but we are afraid it might get worse since we cannot stop families from renting residential properties for a temporary stay.

“The authorities need to conduct checks. They must ensure the properties comply with the necessary safety measures, are licensed and respond to neighbours’ reports,” he added.

A Bukit Gambir resident who wanted to be known only as Jane said she was shocked to see strangers roaming around the property before realising that many units there were being rented out as homestays.

“I thought it would be a nice place to live with my family as it’s strategically located near schools.

“During the holidays, the swimming pool is swarming with visitors, many of whom do not comply with the dress code and house rules.

“They dip into the pool without showering and leave trash all over the place,” she added.

In Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Bandaraya Residents’ Association adviser Datuk M. Ali said residential areas are meant for communities who have invested in their properties to live there.

“Please don’t allow the peace in residential areas to be disturbed,” he told the authorities as he urged them not to treat revenue generation as priority.

“Have the people’s interest at heart,” he added. - Star