MBPP shuts down four unlicensed businesses run by foreigners

The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) conducted an enforcement operation on April 15, targeting and shutting down four unlicensed businesses owned by foreigners. This operation, known as Ops Tegas, was carried out across Penang Island, with specific attention paid to two barbershops on Jalan Gurdwara, a food outlet at Fortune Court in Air Itam, and a retail business on Jalan Datuk Keramat.

The enforcement action commenced in the afternoon with the simultaneous shutdown of the two barbershops. This was followed by the closure of the food outlet in Air Itam later that day. The operation concluded with the night-time seizure of business equipment at the retail business on Jalan Datuk Keramat.

All four businesses were sealed off and had their equipment seized under the provisions of the Local Government Act 1976. Notices of the enforcement action were served to the respective business owners, their representatives, or employees through MBPP's official Facebook page.

MBPP emphasized the importance of ensuring valid licenses are held and adhering to all licensing conditions. Failure to comply could result in legal action, including the closure of the premises and seizure of business assets. The council has been increasingly concerned about the proliferation of foreign-run businesses that do not comply with the necessary requirements, leading to the council's stringent actions.