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How Festive Seasons Affect Malaysia’s Short-Term Rental Market

Malaysia’s multicultural society celebrates a wide array of festivals—Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, and Christmas, to name a few. These festive seasons are significant cultural milestones and key demand drivers in the short-term rental market.With increasing interest in short-term accommodations through platforms like Airbnb, Agoda Homes, and Booking.com, festive seasons can substantially change rental demand, pricing strategies, and booking behaviours. Understanding these trends can be a game-changer for property investors and hosts in boosting yields and optimising property usage throughout the year.How Do Festive Seasons Impact Rental Demand?1. Increased Demand for Short-Term Stays Outside Major CitiesDuring festive holidays like Hari Raya and Chinese New Year, many urban dwellers balik kampung (return to their hometowns), temporarily reducing rental activity in metropolitan centres like Kuala Lumpur.However, this shift simultaneously boosts demand in secondary cities and tourist destinations. Families take advantage of long weekends and public holidays to plan domestic getaways. For example:Airbnb reported a 25–40% increase in bookings during the Hari Raya period in locations like Penang, Langkawi, Ipoh, and Kota Kinabalu.Hotels and homestays in Melaka often report near 90% occupancy during public holiday weekends and festive breaks.Local tourism authorities also confirm a steady surge in domestic travel during festive seasons, contributing to short-term rental activity across heritage towns and coastal destinations.2. Seasonal Pricing AdjustmentsShort-term rental hosts often adjust their pricing dynamically to reflect supply and demand. During peak festive periods, there are two pricing behaviours:Price Surge in Tourist Areas: In-demand spots such as Genting Highlands, Langkawi, or Desaru Coast often see 20–50% price hikes as domestic tourists flood the market.Price Drops in the City Centre: With many Malaysians leaving the city, urban hosts may reduce rates by 10–30% to attract international travellers or expats staying behind.According to AirDNA, average daily rates (ADR) in Kuala Lumpur dip during Hari Raya week, while those in beach towns and island destinations sharply increase.3. High Demand for Spacious HomesFestive seasons are synonymous with family reunions and large group gatherings. Instead of multiple hotel rooms, many opt for spacious landed homes or multi-bedroom Airbnb units.Top-performing units during festive periods tend to have at least 3 bedrooms, large kitchens, and common areas ideal for hosting meals or open houses.Properties with Muslim-friendly amenities (e.g., sejadah, halal kitchens, prayer spaces) are desirable during Hari Raya.In areas with a Chinese majority, homes with traditional design elements or feng shui appeal also perform better during Chinese New Year.Pro Tip for Investors: During festive periods, properties that are family-centric and can accommodate 6+ guests tend to outperform studio or 1-bedroom units.Best Locations for Short-Term Rental Investments During Festive SeasonsWhen considering short-term rental investments, it’s crucial to understand how each festive season affects different regions.✅ Tourist HotspotsThese areas consistently perform well during every festive period:Langkawi – Ideal for beach holidays and island getawaysMelaka – Cultural tourism spikes during school and public holidaysPenang – Famed for food, heritage, and festive street celebrationsGenting Highlands – Popular for cooler weather and family entertainment? Fact: Langkawi Airport sees up to a 60% increase in arrivals during Chinese New Year and Hari Raya holidays (Malaysia Airports Berhad).Source from: Pear Anderson, The Moodie Davitt Report✅ Urban Business & Expat HubsThese areas offer consistent occupancy, especially for international visitors or ex-pats:KLCC & Bukit Bintang – Despite residents leaving the city, tourist traffic keeps bookings steadyMont Kiara – There is a high concentration of Japanese, Korean, and Western ex-patsBangsar – Boutique stays and family homes for locals who choose to celebrate in town? Tip: Adjust marketing for international guests during festive seasons when locals travel. Highlight proximity to malls, restaurants, and transit.✅ Family-Friendly Suburban HomesThese areas attract family groups returning home or those hosting open houses:Shah Alam – Malay-majority, spacious homes ideal for Raya reunionsSetia Alam – Gated communities and landed properties popular for gatheringsCyberjaya & Putrajaya – Convenient location for city getaways with family-friendly spacesOther Notable ObservationsAdvance Bookings Spike 3–4 Weeks Before Major Festivals, especially in Melaka and Penang, where families book early to secure the best properties.Shorter Booking Windows in KL – During festive seasons, bookings may happen within 1–3 days prior as last-minute staycations are planned.High Turnover & Cleaning Needs—During peak periods, Property managers should be prepared for faster turnovers and higher guest expectations.ConclusionFestive seasons in Malaysia bring more than cultural cheer—they unlock opportunities in the short-term rental market. For investors, the key lies in understanding which locations thrive during which festivals, how to price your units accordingly, and the types of properties that best meet holiday travellers' needs.Whether you're targeting tourists in Penang, families in Shah Alam, or expats in Mont Kiara, staying ahead of seasonal trends can lead to higher occupancy rates, increased rental yields, and more substantial returns on investment.Plan ahead, price smartly, and invest wisely—because in Malaysia, festive seasons aren’t just for celebration; they’re prime time for property gains.[hubspot portal="5699703" id="85ebae59-f425-419b-a59d-3531ad1df948" type="form"]Continue Reading10 interior design websites to make your DIY journey smoother!A Quick Guide To Residential Property InvestmentExcited for Raya 2025? Here’s Everything You Need To Know About Hari Raya Aidilfitri!

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Building Wealth Ethically and Responsibly in Real Estate

K. Soma Sundram, a Registered Estate Agent with 36 years of experience, serves as the Corporate Strategic Advisor. He authored this article.The real estate industry in Malaysia plays a crucial role in the economy, directly influencing individuals and businesses through its ownership and property transactions. Apart from developers, contractors, conveyancing lawyers, bankers, valuers, surveyors, and all others involved in the industry, there is a key group contributing to the industry's growth: real estate agents, whom I term real estate practitioners. There are the Real Estate Agents (REA) - those who have passed the real estate exam and registered with the Board, Probationary Real Estate Agents (PEA)- those who have passed the exam and undergoing practical training, and Real Estate Negotiators (REN) - those who are employed by real estate firms as salespeople and certified by the Board of Valuers, Appraisers, Estate Agents and Property Managers [BOVAEP].  As real estate professionals, they are legally empowered by the laws of this country to provide their service delivery efficiently, competently, and in the best interest of their clients.  In a world where money has taken precedence over moral principles, values, and ethical standards, adhering to these codes becomes increasingly important in our practice. This will help  maintain a sense of responsibility and professionalism when dealing with the public. Financial enrichment should not overshadow the ethical responsibilities towards the public.As practitioners, we should continue to build trust and maintain the profession's overall reputation. As such, this article aims to instil in the minds of all concerned that it's not only the responsibility of those delivering the service, but more importantly those seeking such services - it’s a shared responsibility.Table of contentsUnderstanding the Real Estate IndustryThe Need to Maintain High Ethical Standards in Real Estate PracticeConclusion on the Real Estate MarketUnderstanding the Real Estate IndustryThe real estate industry is a complex and multifaceted field that involves buying and selling properties and providing related services. It is a significant sector of the economy, with property transactions valued at RM232.30 billion, involving 420,545 transactions in 2024. This marks the best year in the property market's performance in our country's history. The industry is driven by supply and demand, with contributing factors such as economic performance, interest rates, unemployment rates, inflation, government policies, and demographic changes influencing the real estate market, etc. Real estate professionals serve as the bridge between developers, clients, and landlords, playing a crucial role in facilitating transactions and providing expert guidance.While discussing professionalism among practitioners, the real estate practice in Malaysia is seriously marred by illegal brokers who have tarnished the image of agents' good work. If you go out to the field, you will come across thousands illegals with land deals, a shop, a house or even a business for sale.They will not have clear documents, facts on the property, or appointment letters and may have received the information through third parties. who will always hike up the price to benefit themselves.They cannot be held responsible for their misrepresentations or the provision of misleading information, nor can they be held accountable for any mismanagement of funds. These are the ‘vultures’ in the profession who take advantage by engaging in real estate activities illegally. The alarming fact is that for every 1 real estate agent, it is estimated there are 1,000 illegal brokers.The law is not effective enough to eliminate them; as such, the best advice for the public is to engage a real estate firm through a REN to market your property, and you can sleep well through the night.The Need to Maintain High Ethical Standards in Real Estate PracticeReal estate is about dealing with people's lives and their finances. It's about enriching the lives of those who have invested in it, not enriching ourselves at the expense of others. Practitioners are challenged daily by the lure of money and have a significant role to play in addressing the often-perceived scepticism that arises from the nature of sales, which is frequently associated with manipulation and dishonesty. As Judge Service, an established organization in customer service improvement, states, “Sales, as a profession, often suffer from a negative reputation.” However, real estate agents deserve professional recognition due to several key reasons:Collaboration with Other Professionals – Real estate agents work closely with professionals from various fields, including banking, financing, and the legal practice, requiring them to operate at the same professional standards.Legal Recognition – Many jurisdictions have specific Acts that recognize real estate professionals, granting them the authority to act officially.Specialized Knowledge and Training – Real estate is a specialized field that requires extensive training, certification, and relevant work experience.Public Trust and Market Standing – A well-established ethical framework enhances the profession’s status and fosters confidence among clients and the general public.THE CODE OF ETHICS FOR REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALSEthics, derived from the Greek word “ethos” meaning “character,” is the study of moral behaviour and principles. Ethical behaviour in real estate ensures fairness in dealings with clients, colleagues, and the public. The real estate profession is guided by core values or a code of conduct & ethics, which outlines the professional responsibilities of all practitioners. The Code of Ethics in real estate emphasizes honesty, transparency, and professionalism.Below are some of the key ethical principles that agents must uphold:A.   KNOWLEDGE OF AND COMPLIANCE WITH THE LAWTo constantly acquire knowledge and new skills & conversant with real estate lawsB.   CLIENT INTERESTS FIRST Agents must always prioritize and protect their clients’ interests firstC.   ALWAYS ACT PROFESSIONALLYAct professionally in all dealings D.  AVOIDANCE OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST Agents should not provide professional services if they have a personal or financial interest in a property unless fully disclosedE.    PROFITEERINGAvoid dealings for personal financial gain & seeking to make unfair profitF.    HONEST AND TRANSPARENTAgents should refrain from exaggeration, misrepresentation, or withholding     important informationG.  FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY To ensure financial integrity, client funds must be managed well and held in the firm's clients’ account H.  ACT RESPONSIBLY BY BEING ETHICALTo uphold values of fair and good practicesI.      WRITTEN CONTRACTS All contract details should be documented in writing, with copies provided to all involved parties.J.     PERSONAL INTEREST  & CONFLICT OF INTEREST Must declare any personal or financial interest in the transactionConclusion on the Real Estate MarketMany consider real estate practice a business but disregard the fact that it’s a professional practice. It requires a strong ethical foundation that benefits all parties involved in real estate transactions. Ethical agents earn the trust of their clients and contribute to a fair and reputable profession. Upholding ethical values ensures long-term success and respect within the real estate sector while also building a lifelong customer base. Real estate is a career that offers tremendous growth and development opportunities, but only when practised with integrity. In a profession where financial incentives can sometimes lead to ethical dilemmas, real estate professionals must remember that long-term success is built on honesty, transparency, and adherence to ethical standards. In the same context, the public at large should also expect such a level of service from the practitioners. Isn’t it exciting to make money the ethical way and be respected in what you do?If you’re interested in becoming a successful agent, don’t hesitate to join our amazing team! “Integrity is not a given factor in everyone's life. It is a result of self-discipline, inner trust, and a decision to be relentlessly honest in all situations in our lives” John Maxwell[hubspot portal="5699703" id="c063034a-f66d-41ab-881b-6e6a3f275c33" type="form"]

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Where to Find Homes with the Best Community Living in Malaysia

Living in Malaysia is known for its close-knit communities, where neighbours come together for festive celebrations, morning jogs, and weekend gatherings. For homebuyers, finding a place with a strong sense of community can enhance their lifestyle and overall well-being.Whether it’s a family-friendly township, an eco-conscious neighbourhood, or an expat-friendly enclave, certain areas in Malaysia stand out for their vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.Steps On Finding The Best Location in MalaysiaThe Best Neighbourhoods for Community-Focused LivingDesa Park City, Kuala LumpurSetia Alam, SelangorMont Kiara, Kuala LumpurEco Ardence, SelangorHorizon Hills, Johor BahruWhy Community-Focused Living MattersHow to Buy a House in MalaysiaBe a Part of a Community That’s Changing LivesThe Best Neighbourhoods for Community-Focused LivingDesa Park City, Kuala LumpurDesa Park City is one of Kuala Lumpur’s most sought-after residential areas, offering a modern yet community-driven lifestyle.With lush parks, pedestrian-friendly walkways, and pet-friendly spaces, it’s a haven for families prioritising safety and outdoor activities. Central Park serves as a hub for social gatherings, while cafés, restaurants, and frequent events create a strong sense of belonging among residents.Setia Alam, SelangorSetia Alam is a well-planned township designed for family-oriented living. Developed by SP Setia, it offers everything from schools and medical centres to recreational parks and shopping malls. The neighbourhood is known for its active community events, making it an excellent place for families looking to build strong social connections while enjoying modern conveniences.Mont Kiara, Kuala LumpurMont Kiara is a top choice for expats and professionals seeking a cosmopolitan lifestyle. With luxury condominiums, international schools, and a thriving social scene, the area offers a mix of urban convenience and close-knit community living. Social clubs, networking events, and international hubs make it easy for newcomers to feel home.Eco Ardence, SelangorEco Ardence stands out for its eco-friendly concept and vibrant community life. With scenic landscapes, lakeside homes, and sustainable living initiatives, it attracts young families and professionals who appreciate nature and modern amenities. The Ardence Labs lifestyle hub, featuring cafés, co-working spaces, and community events, enhances the neighbourhood’s sense of connection.Horizon Hills, Johor BahruHorizon Hills is a peaceful gated community built around a championship golf course. A serene and secure environment appeals to families, retirees, and expatriates.The well-maintained landscapes and exclusive clubhouse facilities create a resort-like atmosphere, while its proximity to Singapore makes it an attractive option for cross-border professionals.So there you have it—5 of the best areas in Malaysia for community living. These neighbourhoods are not just built for aesthetics, but with people in mind. Every element is thoughtfully designed to create spaces where residents can live, work, learn, and socialize in comfort and harmony.Why Community-Focused Living MattersA strong community offers more than just convenience—it provides safety, social connections, and a better quality of life. Gated townships enhance security, while shared facilities and local events foster a sense of belonging. Properties in well-planned neighbourhoods also tend to hold higher value, making them a wise investment for homebuyers.How to Buy a House in MalaysiaFinding the right neighbourhood is just one part of the journey—knowing how to buy a house in Malaysia is just as important. Before making a purchase, it’s crucial to assess financial readiness, understand loan options, and budget for additional costs such as legal fees and stamp duty. First-time buyers can also explore first-home buyer schemes that provide financial assistance.Engaging a trusted real estate agent can simplify the process by offering insights on property pricing, market trends, and legal procedures. Conducting a home inspection is also essential to avoid unexpected issues after purchase. For a more detailed guide, check out these expert house-buying tips and advice for first-time homebuyers.Be a Part of a Community That’s Changing LivesAt IQI, we believe in more than just selling homes—we’re building communities and creating opportunities. If you’re passionate about real estate, personal growth, and making a real impact, this is the place for you. Join our team and be part of a global network of professionals helping people find their dream homes.Ready to take the next step? Connect with us today and discover how you can grow your career in real estate with IQI. [hubspot portal="5699703" id="c063034a-f66d-41ab-881b-6e6a3f275c33" type="form"]Continue reading:7 Dog-Friendly Places In KL & PJ For Your Furry Friends!Why is Shah Alam Property Becoming a Popular Choice Among Homebuyers?Exploring Toronto's Best Neighborhoods to Call HomeInvestments in infrastructure will open up new neighbourhoods, says Juwai IQI

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Hari Raya Aidilfitri with IQI Cares: A Celebration of Unity, Gratitude, and Giving

Hari Raya Aidilfitri is more than just a festive holiday—it is a time of reflection, gratitude, and unity. As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims across Malaysia come together to celebrate with prayers, family gatherings, and acts of kindness.This joyous occasion is about seeking forgiveness, strengthening relationships, and appreciating life's blessings. But most importantly, it is a time for generosity and togetherness, values that lie at the heart of IQI Cares.Celebrating Hari Raya Together:IQI Gives Back to the CommunityStanding with Miri’s Flood VictimsOvercoming Challenges to Make a DifferenceHari Raya: A Time for Hope and UnityFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)IQI Gives Back to the CommunityAt IQI Cares, we believe Hari Raya is not just about celebrations. It is about community, inclusivity, and making a difference. Just as Malaysia thrives on diversity, we champion togetherness, ensuring that people from all walks of life feel supported and uplifted.Beyond the festive lights and cheerful gatherings, Hari Raya is a time to give back. Through our ongoing IQI Cares Initiative, we dedicate ourselves to bringing positive change where it is needed the most.Each month, IQI Cares allocates RM10,000 to charitable causes, with different departments taking the lead. For March 2025, we took a different approach to the season of giving, by extending aid to flood victims in Miri, Sarawak.Standing with Miri’s Flood VictimsWhile many were preparing for festive celebrations, Miri, Sarawak, was battling a crisis. At the end of January 2025, severe flooding struck the region, displacing families and devastating communities. Continuous heavy rainfall led to landslides, mass evacuations, and tragic casualties, leaving many in desperate need of assistance.Recognizing the urgency of the situation, IQI Cares quickly redirected its efforts to support the flood relief mission. Partnering with a local volunteer leader and a dedicated team of 30 volunteers, we channeled RM10,000 towards essential aid for the affected families.Overcoming Challenges to Make a DifferenceDistributing aid in a disaster zone was no easy task. The team faced numerous challenges, including:✅ Logistical Hurdles – Long queues, damaged roads, and flooded areas made deliveries difficult.✅ Severe Weather Conditions – The persistent rain worsened the situation, creating new risks every day.✅ Health & Safety Risks – Waterborne diseases, landslide threats, and even crocodile sightings posed real dangers to volunteers and victims alike.Despite these obstacles, IQI Cares remained committed. Every ringgit was carefully planned, with RM100 allocated per affected family, ensuring that as many households as possible received support.Hari Raya: A Time for Hope and UnityThis initiative is a reminder that Hari Raya is not just about celebration, it is about compassion. While many of us gather around dining tables filled with delicious food, some families are struggling to rebuild their lives. It is during times like these that true generosity and unity shine the brightest.As we celebrate this season of togetherness, let us remember the importance of giving. Not just in times of crisis, but as an ongoing commitment to those in need.IQI Cares is proud to be a part of this mission, and we will continue to stand by our communities, ensuring that hope, kindness, and support reach every corner where it is needed.Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri! May this festive season bring light, love, and renewed strength to all.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) How do I know when is Hari Raya? Hari Raya Puasa falls on 1st Syawal, based on the Islamic lunar calendar. The date is confirmed by moon sighting on the 29th of Ramadan, if the new moon is seen, Syawal starts the next day; if not, Ramadan lasts 30 days.What is Hari Raya in Malaysia? Hari Raya in Malaysia usually refers to Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Eid al-Fitr), a major Muslim celebration marking the end of Ramadan. It’s a time for forgiveness, family gatherings, and feasting.Looking to be part of something bigger? At IQI, we celebrate, uplift, and grow together. If you're looking for a team that values community, inclusivity, and meaningful connections, come join us and make a difference.[hubspot portal="5699703" id="c063034a-f66d-41ab-881b-6e6a3f275c33" type="form"]Continue Reading:Celebrating Deepavali with IQI: The Festival of LightsIQI Cares: Empowering Women in Real EstateIQI Cares: Celebrating Unity and Diversity on Malaysia Day

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