SEMPORNA: The issue of foreigners allegedly using social visit passes to operate illegal tourism businesses in Semporna has been raised at the Federal Cabinet.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Sabah and Sarawak) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud said enforcement operations were being carried out, particularly against business activities on popular tourist islands in the district.
"The matter has been discussed in Cabinet and operations are being conducted," he told reporters after visiting Pulau Ligitan, Pulau Sipadan and Pulau Mabul on Monday (Oct 19).
He said the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry was also looking into the matter and would take appropriate action.
The issue drew attention following reports of foreign investors allegedly using local nominees to control tourism businesses, including resorts and accommodation facilities in Semporna.
In June, Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) commander Datuk Victor Sanjos revealed that foreign operators were using Malaysians as nominees to run tourism businesses.
