Zahid: Crackdown on illegal immigrants running businesses tonight

Zahid and Penang police chief Datuk Wira Abdul Rahim Hanafi (right) checking out the new tiles at the Bukit Tengah Police Station in Penang

ALOR GAJAH: A nationwide integrated operation to eradicate business premises run by illegal immigrants or foreign nationals using permits of locals will kick-off tonight.

The operation involves the immigration department, police, local authorities and Rela.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the operation would ensure the authorities tackled fully such business premises run by foreigners or illegals.

"Generally, the people feel their business opportunities have been seized by foreigners.

"Malaysians too, should share the blame (for such situations), especially those given licences to open businesses.

 "Don't rent out licences, don't sell the licences to others because they are given to Malaysians by the Government to help them improve their standard of living," he told reporters after opening Masjid Tanah Umno division's people's carnival here.

Ahmad Zahid said he understood that many outlets in business areas, such as Chow Kit, Jalan Silang and the Keramat Market in the national capital were being run by foreigners.

He said local authorities should carry out a review every year on trading premises to ensure they were not abused.

The operation was slated under the second phase of the Ops 6P Bersepadu.

The special operation is being jointly handled by various departments, including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission that will be monitoring elements of corruption or bribery.