DBKL seals 44 premises operated by foreigners

The Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) sealed 44 premises operated by foreigners on Jalan Kenanga. This action was taken under Section 101(1)(v) of the Local Government Act 1976 during Ops Bersepadu (TEBAH) on Premises Operated by Foreigners Series 5 in 2023.

A total of 51 compound notices were issued, addressing various violations related to operating businesses without proper licenses, employing foreign workers, and breaching license conditions under the Trades, Businesses and Industries Licensing of the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur (WPKL) 2016 by-laws and the Local Government Act 1976.

Compound notices for a range of offenses

The integrated operation involved multiple authorities, including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Immigration Department, the National Registration Department (NRD), and the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM).

During the operation, a total of 217 business premises engaged in various activities, such as selling clothing, accessories, and electronics, were inspected. Focus was primarily on foreign workers and business operators.

Immigration Department detained 29 foreign workers, originating from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Myanmar, for failing to provide proper identification documents under offenses outlined in the Immigration Act 1959/63.

SSM issued 92 compound notices for a range of offenses and violations, with 64 notices related to the Business Registration Act 1956 and 28 notices under the Companies Act 2016. These notices targeted both business owners and companies.

NRD conducted 42 inspections and issued warnings to individuals or business operators regarding the use of registered or suspicious identity cards under the National Registration Act 1959. The comprehensive operation aimed to address multiple aspects of non-compliance.

Illegal business operations by foreigners

DBKL’s swift action in sealing premises operated by foreigners and issuing compound notices underscores its commitment to maintaining compliance with local regulations and licensing requirements. The operations were conducted in collaboration with various governmental bodies to address multiple offenses, including illegal business operations, unauthorized foreign workers, and violations of licensing conditions.

The issuance of show-cause letters to local premises owners further emphasizes the importance of adhering to regulations regarding the employment of foreign workers and conducting businesses within the bounds of the law. These letters serve as a notice of potential consequences, such as the suspension or cancellation of business licenses.

The participation of various government agencies, including the Royal Malaysia Police, the Immigration Department, the National Registration Department, and the Companies Commission of Malaysia, reflects a coordinated effort to ensure that all aspects of non-compliance are addressed effectively.

These operations in Jalan Kenanga are part of an ongoing effort to maintain regulatory compliance in areas with businesses operated by foreigners. Such initiatives play a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that businesses operate within the framework of existing regulations.

DBKL’s commitment to enforcing the law and upholding licensing requirements serves to create a fair and transparent business environment in Kuala Lumpur. The sealing of premises and issuance of compound notices send a clear message regarding the importance of adhering to the established legal framework governing businesses operated by both local and foreign entrepreneurs.