SEMPORNA, Oct 19 — The issue of foreigners abusing social visit passes to engage in illegal economic activities in Semporna has been raised and discussed in the Federal Cabinet, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud.
He said the federal government takes the situation seriously and is actively carrying out enforcement action through integrated operations, particularly on popular tourist islands in the waters off the district.
“Action is being taken on this issue, with operations conducted particularly against business activities on the islands.
“The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac) has also discussed this issue and will take appropriate action,” he told reporters after an official working visit today to assess border control preparedness at Pulau Ligitan, Pulau Sipadan and Pulau Mabul.
