Government Tightens Border Controls Amid Rising Misuse of Social Visit Passes
ALOR SETAR: Malaysia has recorded a slight but steady increase in cases involving the misuse of Social Visit Passes (PLS) by foreign nationals over the past two years, said Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
He said monitoring by the Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia revealed that some tourists had abused their passes by engaging in unauthorised work and business activities.
“Social Visit Passes are meant strictly for tourism purposes. However, some individuals have misused them for employment and commercial operations,” he told reporters.
Illegal Practices Affect Local Businesses
Saifuddin also revealed cases where foreigners entered Malaysia to secure furniture or interior design orders, completed the work overseas, and offered the services at lower prices.
He said such practices violate immigration regulations and undermine local traders by disrupting fair market competition.
Stronger Inter-Agency Enforcement
Commenting on enforcement efforts, he said cooperation between Immigration and the Agensi Kawalan dan Perlindungan Sempadan will be intensified.
Measures include tighter border inspections, closer monitoring of foreign nationals’ activities, and firm legal action against offenders.
Call for Calm Ahead of Diplomatic Visit
In a related development, Saifuddin once again urged organisers of the Anti-Illegal Housing Movement (GARAH) to postpone their planned rally in the capital.
He said the official visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a key diplomatic event that requires a stable and peaceful environment.
Kedah Development Project Near Completion
Earlier, Saifuddin inspected a RM17.5 million Business Facilities Centre project by the Lembaga Kemajuan Wilayah Kedah, which is nearing completion.
The facility is expected to begin operations in August and support local entrepreneurship.
-wilayah.com.my
