PETALING JAYA, Jan 23 — Online hospitality provider Airbnb said today it has generated over RM200 million for the Malaysian economy in the last year alone, amid Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s (DBKL) move to register owners and operators offering rentals.

The firm also said that it has been involved in discussions with Malaysian authorities over the prospects and benefits of the platform to local tourism.

"With 1.5 million guest arrivals to Malaysia, Airbnb has generated an incredible RM200.4 million (USD$50.2 million) for the Malaysian economy in the last year alone,” a spokesman said in a statement.

"We look forward to continue working closely with the relevant authorities to craft and implement clear and fair regulations governing short term rentals in Malaysia.”

It said it has worked with over 275 governments worldwide to develop "clear and sensible frameworks” that support home sharing while at the same time addressing local community needs.

"We’ve had meaningful and productive conversations with the Malaysian authorities, who are excited by the prospect of home sharing and the benefits the Airbnb platform is already bringing to local tourism,” it said.

On Friday, DBKL licensing and petty traders management department director Anwar Mohd Zain said it plans to regulate the short-term rental market by 2019 as there are currently no laws governing it despite daily market growth.

Anwar said DBKL has received numerous complaints from the public -—mainly those in apartments and condominiums — where some units are rented out for the short term.