KOTA KINABALU — Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dato’ Seri Tiong King Sing, has expressed deep concern over the rising safety issues in Sabah’s tourism sector, warning that illegal and unregulated operations could seriously harm Malaysia’s tourism reputation.
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Tiong said he had received numerous complaints from the public and industry players about irregularities and unlawful activities at several tourist spots in the state. These included allegations of operators running without proper permits, unsafe practices, and questionable ownership structures.
To address these concerns, Tiong recently led a large-scale joint enforcement operation in Tawau. The operation involved officers from the Tourism Licensing and Enforcement Division of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Malaysian Immigration Department, the Royal Malaysian Police, and other relevant agencies.
Two-Day Intensive Enforcement
During the two-day operation, inspections were carried out on 30 buses and tourist vehicles, 15 tourism business premises, 40 boats, and four jetties. Nine offences were recorded, with summonses issued to the parties involved.
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On the first day, at Tawau Airport, Tiong personally led a team to check on tourist buses, tour guides, and tour package counters within the terminal. Several tourist groups and buses suspected of breaking regulations were issued summonses.
The following day, enforcement officers conducted a sea patrol using five boats. Inspections found vessels carrying passengers beyond the permitted limit, operating without valid permits, and possessing unverified documents.
Surprise Checks and Roadblocks
The operation also saw surprise inspections at various tourism premises, with roadblocks set up to verify bus permits and driver licences. Ships moored at jetties were checked for valid documents and adequate safety equipment, such as life jackets.
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Tiong revealed that several tour companies that appeared locally owned were in fact operated by investors from China. Some were found to be running illegal overwater chalets without permits, engaging in aquaculture farming without proper approval, and building homestays on agricultural or livestock land without authorisation.
“These operations without certificates and legal approvals pose serious safety and management risks. If an accident happens, the consequences could be tragic,” Tiong warned.
No Compromise on Safety and Legality
He urged local authorities to take swift action, investigate suspicious operators, and shut down any business found operating without a valid licence. While welcoming foreign investment in Malaysia’s tourism sector, Tiong stressed that it must be done legally and in line with national regulations.
“Welcoming investors does not mean turning a blind eye. Whether they are from China or any other country, those involved in illegal activities, bad practices, or misuse of rental licences to bypass the law will not be tolerated,” he said firmly.
He also reminded that any tour operator found guilty of violating regulations would have their licence permanently revoked if strong evidence was obtained. Local tourism operators were urged not to risk their livelihoods by renting or lending licences for profit.
Commitment to Protect Tourism Reputation
Tiong emphasised that the growth of Malaysia’s tourism industry is vital to the nation’s economy and its people. Maintaining its reputation and ensuring the safety of tourists must remain the top priority.
“The Ministry and I are committed to strict enforcement and regulations to ensure the industry stays orderly and always prioritises tourist safety,” Tiong concluded.
The operation in Tawau is expected to be the start of a wider series of enforcement activities targeting unlicensed and unsafe tourism operations across Malaysia. — Dato’ Seri Tiong King Sing
