Tourplus has announced its partnership with Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) to provide accreditation status to accommodation operators under the De Rantau programme.
The accreditation will certify and recognise remote-work-friendly accommodations and boost their level of preparedness for an influx of remote workers in De Rantau Hubs located in Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Penang in the coming years.
According to Forbes, there are more than 35 million digital nomads globally with them expected to contribute a global economic value of USD787 billion annually. The De Rantau programme hopes to tap this lucrative market and is expected to generate an income of RM70 billion by 2025 as well as growth within the digital economy.
Properties of accredited accommodation operators will be featured on the Tourplus platform. Aside from finding accommodation deals that best match their needs for remote work with a holiday-like experience, digital nomads can also select accommodation options through the platform that will enable them to network with like-minded individuals and immerse themselves in new cultures and experiences.
To become accredited, accommodation operators must be able to prove that their premises are well-equipped with the necessary connectivity, convenience and comfort that meet the needs of remote workers from across the globe. The premises must fulfil the following criteria and possess the necessary facilities including:
- Lodging: Bed, bathroom, workspace with desk and chair, cashless payment options, security, kitchen or pantry;
- Internet: Free wifi with a minimum of 100 MBPS, 4G/LTE and a minimum of 8 MBPS for fixed broadband;
- Vibrancy of community and livelihood: Accessible cafés and restaurants, convenience stores, entertainment spots, transportation, and digital platform services; and
- Engagement: Educational programmes, cultural experiences, recreational activities and gatherings.
Accommodation operators who do not meet the accreditation criteria will be able to apply for a facility upgrading grant of up to RM10,000 from MDEC. The fund aims to assist accommodation operators with expenses for adaptations, repairs and refurbishment to their premises, enabling them to secure accreditation and be better equipped to meet the requirements of digital nomads.
CEO & Founder of Tourplus, Rickson Goh said, “With the rise of remote working globally coupled with Malaysia’s beautiful locations, we have an immense opportunity to attract foreign talent to our shores.”
The accreditation and grant are open for participation to all accommodation providers including 1-5 stars hotels and resorts, homestays and Airbnb homes within the De Rantau Hubs vicinity.
Goh also shared that Tourplus is cognizant of the fact that the benefits of the accreditation must not just benefit the digital nomads, but the local tourism industry as well.
“Accommodation operators will experience increased bookings and simultaneously a sales boost for nearby businesses such as restaurants and marts. Digital nomads on the other hand can identify suitable accommodation options that are conducive to their work needs and other preferences including duration of stay, infrastructure, accessibility, comfort and location such as the beach side or a city,” Goh added.
Tourplus has also been appointed as a De Rantau ecosystem partner to create thriving De Rantau Hubs across Malaysia by facilitating the growth of neighbouring restaurants, laundromats, spa and wellness centres and more through active promotions specifically for digital nomads.
Digital nomads can now enjoy up to RM50 per booking for selected products and services listed on the Tourplus App.
