Airbnb.org is collaborating with the Selangor State Government and HostPlatform to provide free emergency housing for families displaced by the recent Putra Heights fires in Malaysia. The initiative aims to assist over 100 families who have either lost their homes or been forced to evacuate from neighborhoods such as Taman Putra Harmoni and Kampung Kuala Sungai Baru.
Through this partnership, the Selangor State Government identifies residents in need and connects them to Airbnb.org stays for up to 30 days. These temporary accommodations are fully funded by Airbnb.org, allowing affected families time to seek longer-term housing solutions while government efforts focus on rebuilding damaged infrastructure.
Y.A.B Dato’ Seri Haji Amirudin Shari, Chief Minister of Selangor, stated: “It is heartening to see the community come together in times of need. It is through moments of crisis which shines the light on the unrivalled empathy, resilience, and togetherness of Selangorians.
I am thoroughly pleased that Airbnb.org was one of the first groups to step forward to partner with the State Government of Selangor to offer displaced residents in relief centres access to safer, better-quality housing at no charge for one month.
To date, over 100 families affected by the Putra Heights fire have signed up to accept Airbnb.org’s generous offer, and this will allow some breathing room for the residents as they attempt to put their lives back together, while the State and Federal Government can expend our efforts to rebuild the homes and infrastructure damaged in this tragic incident.”
HostPlatform has contributed RM 100K in donations toward supporting victims of the fires and is also assisting evacuees with booking their free stays. Jayden Lee, Chief Executive Officer of HostPlatform said: “We’re proud to support the Selangor State Government and Airbnb.org by mobilizing our network of hosts to help those impacted by the Putra Heights fires find a place to call home during this challenging time.”
Airbnb.org operates as a nonprofit organization founded by Airbnb. It provides free emergency housing during crises and has offered more than 1.6 million nights of accommodation for over 250,000 people globally. The organization partners with governments and nonprofits worldwide and funds its work through contributions from Airbnb, private donors, and hosts who volunteer their properties at no cost or reduced rates.
Airbnb waives all service fees for these emergency stays. Hosts can participate by offering their homes for free or at a discount or donating a portion of each payout directly back into supporting further relief efforts. Participating hosts receive an Airbnb.org supporter badge on their profiles as recognition.