Penang: The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) is intensifying its efforts to tackle illegal business activities conducted by foreign traders, following a surge of complaints from local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) regarding unfair competition.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MITI's Deputy Minister, Sim Tze Tzin, emphasized that this initiative aligns with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's directive for a coordinated enforcement action against illegal enterprises, particularly those operated by foreigners who flout Malaysian laws. Sim highlighted that MITI has been receiving grievances from industry stakeholders about foreign-operated illegal businesses impacting local enterprises. This has prompted the government to initiate extensive enforcement actions to curb such practices.

Sim voiced the government's stance that while it encourages legitimate investments and businesses that adhere to Malaysian regulations, it will not tolerate illicit activities that threaten the livelihood and prospects of local entrepreneurs. He pointed out that illegal operators often gain an unfair advantage by evading taxes and failing to meet business regulations, putting local MSMEs at a disadvantage.

The deputy minister also addressed the misuse of visitor and student visas by foreigners to conduct business in Malaysia. He recounted an incident in Sabah where a foreign group controlled the entire tourism industry supply chain, depriving local industry players of economic benefits. The government recognizes the risk posed by foreigners who enter Malaysia on visitor or tourist visas but engage in business activities, thereby affecting the opportunities available to local workers and businesses.