Malaysia’s hotels started 2026 with a record quarter, but the haze, rising costs and the conflict in the Middle East have since weighed on demand, while short-term rentals like Airbnb compete for the same guests. We talk about levelling the playing field between hotels and Airbnb, and the challenges of growing a hotel business as Ascott plans to expand from 35 to 50 properties in Malaysia.

<p>Malaysia’s hotels started 2026 with a record quarter, but the haze, rising costs and the conflict in the Middle East have since weighed on demand, while short-term rentals like Airbnb compete for the same guests. We talk about levelling the playing field between hotels and Airbnb, and the challenges of growing a hotel business as Ascott plans to expand from 35 to 50 properties in Malaysia.</p>

Helping you navigate the ever-changing universe of business, from headlines to the bottom line

<p>Helping you navigate the ever-changing universe of business, from headlines to the bottom line</p>