With around a million tourists frolicking on Malaysian beaches every year, unlicensed resorts are a money-spinner for financially challenged villagers who depend on tourism for a livelihood.

However, an investigation found that villagers who convert their homes into chalets and homestays to cater to both foreign and local tourists are causing more damage to the islands than they know.

It was found that much of the sewage pollution from island resorts can be traced to unlicensed ones. Many of these resorts were also built without adherence to fire and safety laws, have improper sewage systems and cause other issues like mosquito breeding due to clogged drains.

Observers who spoke to Malaysiakini also claim...