PUTRAJAYA: The government has directed the relevant agencies to take firm enforcement action against the misuse of social visit visas for illegal employment and business activities, says Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim. This includes strengthening the monitoring of unauthorised employment and business activities. "Following complaints from local traders, I raised this matter, and the government has directed the relevant agencies to take firm enforcement action, including strengthening the monitoring of unauthorised employment and business activities. "I will work closely with the Home Affairs Minister and the relevant agencies to ensure that follow-up actions are implemented without delay. "This step is important to protect micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and local small traders, and to ensure that the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem remains orderly and competitive," he said in a statement on Thursday (Jan 15).

Source: The Star January 15, 2026 05:29 UTC