Anwar said enforcement efforts must no longer operate in isolation, as commercial activity increasingly shifts online and across borders.
PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has directed ministries and enforcement agencies to intensify coordinated action against illegal business activities involving foreign nationals, including misuse of visas and local business licences.
Speaking at the Communications Ministry monthly assembly, Anwar said enforcement efforts must no longer operate in isolation, as commercial activity increasingly shifts online and across borders.
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“Therefore, the steps we are proposing involve all ministries: there must be a review of e-commerce platforms and money trails,” he said.
He added that the coordinated enforcement framework will involve the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN), the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), Royal Malaysian Customs Department and the Immigration Department.
“KPDN will check the business licences involved, LHDN and Customs will look into taxes, and Immigration will check for abuse of passes,” he said.
Anwar said agencies including the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), Bank Negara Malaysia and other relevant authorities must also collaborate under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLA) to monitor e-commerce platforms and financial transactions.
He said the initiative aims to close regulatory loopholes that have allowed some foreign operators to exploit online marketplaces and immigration rules while creating pressure on local traders.
“There are cases involving individuals from China who come in on tourist visas or as students, but end up running businesses such as air-conditioning shops and small enterprises.
“This is creating unease among local traders. The government has no choice but to impose stricter conditions, including requirements for a fixed registered business address and a ban on the use of borrowed or proxy premises,” he said.
Anwar also warned of increasingly complex foreign-linked business networks operating through intermediaries in sectors such as food, transport and travel services.
He stressed that the government would not tolerate proxy arrangements designed to bypass local regulations.
“If we find misuse, we will cancel the permit, all the way back to where it was issued,” he said.
He added that enforcement agencies must act decisively to safeguard the integrity of Malaysia’s business ecosystem, including revoking licences where necessary if abuse is detected.
