Saifuddin orders crackdown on social visit pass abuse in Semporna

The Malaysian government is intensifying efforts to curb the misuse of social visit passes by foreign tourists who engage in illicit economic activities in Sabah, particularly in the state of Semporna, according to Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. The authorities have uncovered instances where visitors who arrived under the guise of tourism later ventured into business ventures, including running resorts in partnership with locals, as reported by Bernama.

In response, Saifuddin has directed relevant agencies, such as the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom), to collaborate with local authorities in joint enforcement operations. Speaking in Sandakan, he emphasized that while Malaysia is open to visitors, compliance with the country's laws is non-negotiable. "We want to send a clear message that while our country welcomes visitors, they must abide by our laws.

If they enter as tourists but engage in business activities and we detect the offence, we will take action," he stated.

Saifuddin's visit included inspections of security arrangements on several islands within the Eastern Sabah Security Zone, alongside a delegation of foreign representatives. Among the attendees were Esscom Commander Victor Sanjos and Esscom CEO Jamaluddin Ali. A previous report had raised concerns over foreign investors allegedly seizing control over parts of Semporna's tourism economy, which could pose security and economic risks to local communities.

Despite these apprehensions, Saifuddin reassured that the international community remains confident in the security situation and the tourism potential of the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESS Zone). As of June, the ESS Zone had recorded 129,492 tourist arrivals. He believes that the ESS Zone continues to enjoy international confidence in its security and tourism potential.