Kuala lumpur: The low number of tourists staying overnight in Perak is making it difficult for the state government to attract internationally branded hotels or those rated four stars and above to operate in the state, the state legislative assembly was told today. Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development Committee chairman Loh Sze Yee said the state government has been working on developing boutique hotels in Perak.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, several boutique hotels are already operating in Ipoh, catering well to tourists seeking good-quality accommodation and sleep. Loh mentioned that many tourists prioritize a comfortable and clean place to sleep, with clean toilets and beds, over the luxury of five-star and above hotels. As such, boutique hotels are considered well-suited to the market demands.

However, Loh emphasized that the state government also needed internationally, regionally, or locally branded high-end hotels to further boost tourism in Perak. This, he said, would encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more, thereby enhancing the local tourism economy.

Based on the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) website, boutique hotels must have at least 10 rooms or 50 beds, and offer friendly, personalized, and luxurious services with unique and distinctive concepts and designs. These hotels are capable of attracting niche tourists seeking different and special accommodation experiences to meet their individual preferences.