World · Malaysia Bureau
Unlicensed Semporna resort caught employing Chinese nationals illegally
Authorities in Tawau have arrested seven Chinese nationals accused of working illegally at a resort in Semporna that lacked proper business licensing and employment clearance. The men are suspected of misusing their Social Visit Passes to engage in employment rather than tourism activities.
LSN Malaysia ·
Immigration and labour enforcement officers uncovered the operation at the beachfront resort in the popular tourist destination of Semporna during a joint raid. The seven Chinese men, all holding valid Social Visit Passes, were detained for allegedly violating immigration regulations by undertaking work without proper authorisation.
Investigations revealed the resort itself was operating without a valid business licence and had failed to obtain the necessary approval from the immigration authorities to employ foreign nationals. The establishment had continued functioning despite lacking these fundamental regulatory requirements.
The arrests highlight ongoing concerns about compliance failures in Sabah's tourism sector, where resorts and hospitality operators must maintain proper licensing and adhere to strict employment regulations regarding foreign workers. Immigration officials are expected to conduct further investigations into the resort's operations and the circumstances that allowed the unlicensed facility to continue operations.
Authorities have not disclosed additional details regarding the identities of those arrested or the resort's ownership. The case underscores the need for enhanced enforcement mechanisms to ensure tourism operators comply with Malaysian employment and business licensing requirements.