Tourism Minister led joint Ops to Crack Down on Illegal Operators in Tawau
TAWAU, 13 August 2025 – Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, has led a joint enforcement operation in Tawau, involving officers from the Ministry’s Licensing and Tourism Enforcement Division, the Immigration Department, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and other relevant agencies.
During the two-day operation, the team conducted thorough inspections of 30 tourist buses and vehicles, 15 tourism business premises, 40 boats, and 4 jetties.
As a result, summonses were issued for nine violations, including overloaded boats, lack of valid permits, and possession of unverified documentation.
On the first day, Tiong led inspections at Tawau Airport, targeting tourist buses, tour guides, and travel package counters within the terminal.
Several summonses were issued to buses and tourist groups suspected of regulatory breaches.
The following day, enforcement teams boarded five boats for marine patrols, uncovering vessels operating beyond capacity, lacking valid permits, or carrying passengers without proper documents.
The operation also included surprise inspections at various locations, roadblocks to verify tour bus permits and driver licences, and checks on tourism premises and anchored vessels to ensure legal compliance and the presence of adequate safety equipment.
He also voiced serious concern over the growing number of safety violations and illegal activities within Sabah’s tourism sector, warning that such misconduct could damage Malaysia’s international tourism reputation.
The minister revealed that his office has received numerous complaints involving misconduct and unlicensed operations at popular tourism sites across the state.
The following day, enforcement teams boarded five boats for marine patrols, uncovering vessels operating beyond capacity, lacking valid permits, or carrying passengers without proper documents.
The operation also included surprise inspections at various locations, roadblocks to verify tour bus permits and driver licences, and checks on tourism premises and anchored vessels to ensure legal compliance and the presence of adequate safety equipment.
Illegal Businesses with Foreign Links Uncovered
Tiong revealed that several tourism companies, appearing locally owned, were fronts for foreign investors, particularly from China.
These entities were found operating illegal water chalets, unauthorized aquaculture farms, and unlicensed homestays built on agricultural land.
“These illegal operations not only violate the law but also pose serious safety and management risks. The consequences could be tragic in the event of an accident,” said Tiong.
He urged local authorities to act swiftly to investigate suspicious operations and shut down any unlicensed businesses. While he welcomed foreign investment in Malaysia’s tourism sector, he stressed that it must be done legally and in full compliance with national regulations.
Zero Tolerance for Rule-Breakers
“Let me be clear — welcoming investors does not mean turning a blind eye,” he said.
“Whether from China or any other country, illegal operators, unscrupulous practices, or misuse of rental licences to skirt regulations will not be tolerated. Everyone must follow Malaysian laws.”
Tiong also issued a stern warning to local tourism operators and staff not to risk their livelihoods by renting or lending licences to others for profit.
“Any operator found guilty of violating tourism regulations will have their licence permanently revoked once sufficient evidence is established,” he added.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to uphold safety standards in tourism, Tiong said, “Tourism is vital to our economy and our people. The safety, image, and reputation of our tourism sector must be protected at all costs.”
He concluded by pledging that the Ministry would continue its firm enforcement approach to ensure the tourism industry remains well-regulated, transparent, and safe for all.
