Pahang Lestary Fee Explained: What Hoteliers Need to Know

In recent years, Malaysia has been making concerted efforts to promote sustainable tourism and protect its natural heritage. A significant move in this direction is the introduction of the "Lestary Fee" in Pahang. This article provides a comprehensive guide for hoteliers to understand what the Lestary Fee is, its implications, and how to manage it effectively.

Understanding the Lestary Fee in Pahang

The Lestary Fee is a mandatory fee imposed on hoteliers in Pahang. It is a fee that must be collected from guests staying at hotels, resorts, and other accommodation establishments in the state. The fee is levied on a per-room, per-night basis and the amount varies depending on the type of accommodation. The primary goal of this fee is to fund environmental conservation initiatives and support sustainable tourism development in the state.

Why Was the Lestary Fee Introduced?

Pahang is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and majestic highlands. To preserve these natural treasures for future generations, the state government has introduced the Lestary Fee in 2022. The revenue generated will be used to:

1. Support Conservation Projects: Initiatives aimed at protecting wildlife, reforestation, and maintaining natural parks.

2. Promote Sustainable Practices: Encourage hotels and tourism businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices.

3. Enhance Tourism Infrastructure: Develop sustainable tourism infrastructure to minimize the environmental footprint.

4. Raise Environmental Awareness: Educate both locals and tourists on the importance of environmental conservation.

How Much is the Lestary Fee?

As of now, the Lestary Fee is set at a nominal rate of RM 3 per room per night. This amount is relatively small but collectively contributes significantly to environmental conservation efforts.

Responsibilities of Hoteliers

As hoteliers in Pahang, it is important to be aware of your responsibilities when it comes to the Lestary Fee. These responsibilities include:

1. Informing guests about the Lestary Fee at the time of booking or check-in.
2. Collecting the fee from guests and issuing a receipt.
3. Remitting the collected fee to the Pahang State Government within the specified timeframe.
4. Keeping accurate records of the Lestary Fee transactions.
   
   

Importance of Complying with the Lestary Fee

By complying with the fee requirements, hoteliers contribute to the development of tourism in the state. The funds collected through the Lestary Fee are used to support various tourism-related initiatives, such as infrastructure development, marketing campaigns, and cultural preservation projects.

Non-compliance with the Lestary Fee can have serious consequences for hoteliers. This includes potential fines, legal actions, and reputational damage. Hoteliers need to understand the implications of non-compliance and take the necessary steps to ensure compliance.

Tips for Managing and Budgeting for the Lestary Fee

Managing and budgeting for the Lestary Fee can help hoteliers streamline their operations and ensure compliance. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Implement a robust system for collecting and recording the Lestary Fee, such as using dedicated software or integrating it into the hotel's property management system.
2. Train staff on the proper procedures for collecting and remitting the fee.
3. Set aside a dedicated budget for the Lestary Fee to ensure that funds are available for remittance when required.
4. Regularly review and update the fee collection and remittance processes to align with any changes in regulations or requirements.
5. By effectively managing and budgeting for the Lestary Fee, hoteliers can avoid any financial or operational challenges and maintain compliance.
   
   

Resources and Support for Hoteliers in Pahang

Hoteliers in Pahang can access various resources and support to assist them in understanding and complying with the Lestary Fee. These resources include:

1. The official website of the Pahang State Government provides detailed information about the fee, its calculation, and the necessary procedures for compliance.
2. Workshops and training programs organized by tourism authorities or industry associations to educate hoteliers on the Lestary Fee requirements.
3. Consultation services are provided by legal and accounting professionals who specialize in the hospitality industry.
   
   

Hoteliers are encouraged to make use of these resources to stay informed and ensure smooth compliance with the Lestary Fee.

Conclusion 

The Lestary Fee is an important step towards sustainable tourism in Pahang. As a hotelier, you should ensure you understand the responsibilities and communicate effectively with guests about this initiative. By doing so, you can contribute to environmental conservation and support the long-term health of the tourism industry in Pahang.