Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah State Government has promised to take firm action against anyone found illegally passing business licences known as the ‘Ali Baba’ practice to foreigner.
Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Sri Ruddy Awah, gave the assurance during the Sabah State Legislative Assembly sitting, following concerns raised by Jamil Datuk Haji Hamzah (Warisan–Bugaya) and opposition leader Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal (Warisan–Senallang).
Ruddy stressed that while enforcement must be grounded in verified evidence, the government would not remain idle if credible information emerges.
“Strict action will be taken against any party found to have unlawfully transferred tourism business licences to foreigners,” he said.
The issue resurfaced after Jamil questioned the state government’s response to claims that local tourism operators had handed over their licences to Chinese nationals.
Jamil also referred to a statement by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, who had mentioned a possible tip-off that compromised a joint operation targeting illegal travel agencies run by foreigners in November.
In response, Ruddy said no official information regarding the claims.
“The Tourism Ministry suggested there may have been a breach of information, but we have not received any official confirmation. If there is concrete evidence, please come forward. We will not remain silent,” he said.
He added that any enforcement actions must be carried out with clear objectives and proper coordination among the relevant authorities.
“At this stage, there is no immediate need to launch an operation but early planning and preparation are crucial,” he added.
Ruddy also welcomed Jamil’s cooperation in providing detailed and accurate information to support further investigations into any misuse of licences.
Amid calls for more decisive action, Shafie criticised what he described as the government’s lacklustre response and urged state leaders to actively investigate the matter on the ground.
“The Minister raised this issue months ago. If you didn’t hear it, then go and find out the truth. Don’t wait for us to bring it to you,” said the former Chief Minister.
“Law enforcement here is so weak, it’s as if you depend on us to do your job. It’s our duty to raise the issue, but it is your responsibility to act,” he added.
Ruddy gave his personal assurance that he would visit Semporna with Jamil to investigate the allegations directly.
“I will not just speak. I will go down to the ground myself, that is my promise,” he said.