Viral Post Sparks Debate Over Strange Homestay Rules

A social media post asking Malaysians about the strangest homestay rules they have encountered has gone viral, with users sharing a range of unusual restrictions imposed by property owners.

The original poster, @nrrhrhnissss, shared an example of a homestay where guests weighing more than 80kg were allegedly prohibited from sitting on the living-room sofa or dining chairs. The post has since attracted thousands of reactions and numerous personal accounts.

Unusual Homestay Rules Leave Guests Questioning Privacy and Comfort

Other users described rules involving air-conditioning, with one claiming the remote was withheld because the owner feared guests would leave the unit running continuously.

Another said guests could be fined RM200 for leaving wet towels. There were also complaints about owners monitoring guests through CCTV. One user alleged that footage of their family using a swimming pool was captured and posted to promote the homestay without permission. These remain individual accounts shared online. 

The discussion has highlighted the balance between protecting property and respecting guests’ privacy. Similar complaints about excessive monitoring and unusual restrictions have surfaced previously, including reports of owners allegedly using CCTV to monitor guests’ behaviour.

The viral discussion has prompted users to check house rules carefully before booking and clarify surveillance arrangements, deposits and additional charges in advance.