Local Airbnb host, Sohaimi Ismail, recently found himself in a heated confrontation with a competitor over the affordable pricing of his 3-bedroom unit. 

Taking to Facebook, Sohaimi shared his experience of being attacked by a disgruntled rival who accused him of devaluing the market by setting his prices too low. The competitor, expressing anger through text messages, questioned Sohaimi's decision to offer such affordable rates and blamed him for negatively impacting the market. 

In response, Sohaimi defended his pricing strategy, emphasizing that there is nothing wrong with providing a comfortable stay at a reasonable price of RM100+ for a 3-bedroom apartment unit. He highlighted that everyone has the freedom to set their own prices, and his intention was to offer an accessible option for travellers.

Sohaimi's story garnered attention on social media, with netizens expressing support for his decision and praising his generosity. 

Some even commended him for using his story as a marketing strategy to attract potential guests to his homestay. However, there were individuals who questioned the authenticity of his claims after discovering screenshots from the Airbnb app indicating that his actual prices exceeded RM200.

While there may be differing opinions regarding the accuracy of Sohaimi's claims, the incident highlights the competitive nature of the Airbnb market and the challenges hosts face in setting prices that appeal to guests while remaining economically viable. It also sheds light on the importance of transparency and fair competition in the hospitality industry.

As the Airbnb platform continues to evolve, it is crucial for hosts to find a balance between affordability and sustaining their business. The situation serves as a reminder that pricing strategies can spark intense debates within the industry, raising questions about the value of accommodations and the expectations of guests.

Ultimately, Sohaimi's case has sparked discussions on the dynamics of pricing in the local Airbnb market, prompting hosts and travellers alike to reflect on the factors that influence accommodation costs and the implications for both hosts and consumers.