Samenta Criticizes Raid on Melaka Hotel Labeled 'Gay-Friendly,' Warns of Impact on Visit Malaysia Year 2026

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Samenta Criticizes Raid on Melaka Hotel Labeled 'Gay-Friendly,' Warns of Impact on Visit Malaysia Year 2026
**Business Group Condemns Hotel Closure Over Social Media Allegations, Warns of Tourism Impact** KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 14 — The Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (Samenta) has expressed strong concern over the immediate closure of a hotel in Melaka following social media allegations that it was "gay-friendly." The association warns that such actions could damage Malaysia's reputation as a business and tourism destination, particularly ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. The hotel's business license was revoked during a joint operation yesterday by the Melaka Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JAIM) and the Hang Tuah Jaya Municipal Council (MPHTJ). Officials reported that an inspection of 37 rooms found no violations of Shariah criminal law. In a statement, Samenta National President Datuk William Ng described the decision to penalise a business based on unverified claims as part of a "disturbing trend." "We must not allow 'trial by social media' to dictate enforcement actions that can cause irreparable reputational and financial damage to businesses," Ng said. State Religious Affairs Executive Councillor Rahmad Mariman stated he ordered the investigation after online claims about the hotel drew public concern on social media. He confirmed the license was seized to facilitate further investigation and that the hotel owner was summoned for questioning. Ng argued that any closure order or license seizure should follow, not precede, a proper investigation. "The right to be heard is a fundamental principle," he stated, calling for the license to be returned immediately. Samenta warned that arbitrary enforcement creates an unpredictable environment that could deter both local and foreign investment, jeopardising the government's goal of attracting 47 million visitors in 2026. "As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Melaka is a cornerstone of Malaysia’s tourism brand. Reports of moral policing targeting the hospitality sector travel fast globally," Ng said, emphasising that international travellers seek destinations governed by the rule of law. The incident occurs amid heightened public scrutiny of LGBTQ-related matters in Malaysia, including the recent cancellation of a private event by an NGO, which cited safety concerns after receiving threats. While urging enforcement agencies to act fairly, Samenta also reminded business owners to be mindful of cultural sensitivities to avoid unnecessary friction.

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