KUALA LUMPUR: The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (Motac) is planning to form a taskforce to tackle the issue of foreigners abusing tourist visas to open businesses in Semporna.
Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said that Datuk Shafie Apdal (Warisan-Semporna) had raised concerns about Chinese nationals opening businesses in Semporna on several occasions, adding that these activities are linked to visa abuses.
“Motac has notified the district immigration department for immediate action,” he said while winding up his speech on the Supply Bill 2025.
He mentioned that the ministry intends to set up a taskforce, which he will chair, to address the issue of foreigners operating businesses without valid licences.
Tiong explained that the proposed taskforce will involve other agencies such as local authorities, the Immigration Department, the police, the Marine Department, and other relevant agencies.
“Motac acknowledges that enforcement has been lacking due to insufficient staff,” he said, adding that the ministry is in discussions with the Public Service Department (PSD) regarding recruitment.
On the controversy surrounding an incident in which Chinese flags were waved during the International Cultural Guan Gong celebration in Teluk Intan, Tiong said that the matter should not be politicised.
“Let’s not politicise everything. If we make such statements, it will affect tourists from China and other countries,” he said, adding that it could scare away potential visitors.
“This is an issue. Let’s work together and practise tolerance,” he continued. Tiong also said that he would refrain from further commenting as the matter is under police investigation.
