Kuala Lumpur: No to Foreign Hawkers and Small Traders
No Recognition or Permission for Foreign Nationals
The Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) has emphasized that local authorities (PBT) never recognized or permitted foreign nationals to operate as hawkers or small traders. This is a clear stance that has been taken to ensure that business opportunities are provided to locals.
Prohibition on Foreign Nationals under Hawkers By-laws
Deputy Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu stated that under the Hawkers By-laws, foreign nationals are also prohibited from serving as workers or assistants under hawker licences at PBT premises. This is to prevent foreign nationals from taking over business opportunities meant for locals.
Business Licences only for Malaysian Citizens
Aiman Athirah explained that under the Trades, Businesses and Industries By-laws, business licences are only issued to Malaysian citizens. They may employ foreigners as workers or assistants, with the condition that they hold valid work passes or trade permits. PBTs will not tolerate violations of licensing conditions by any business or licensee, and stern actions such as confiscation, fines, closure of premises and licence cancellations would be taken.
State Governments’ Role in Curbing Foreign Nationals’ Operations
At the same time, she said the state governments also play a role in tightening requirements for new licence applications and renewals to curb foreign nationals from operating businesses. This is to ensure that business opportunities are not taken over by foreign nationals.
Enforcement Operations and Complaint Channels
Since 2022, PBTs have conducted 2,031 enforcement operations against business premises, revoking 26,108 licences for breaches, including transferring licences or permits to foreign nationals. PBTs have also introduced multiple complaint channels, including hotlines and the e-Aduan system accessible via PBT portals and the PBTCare mobile app. PBTCare, developed by the KPKT through the Local Government Department, allows users to lodge complaints with photos and real-time locations and receive feedback from authorities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) has made it clear that local authorities (PBT) will not recognize or permit foreign nationals to operate as hawkers or small traders. This is to ensure that business opportunities are provided to locals and to prevent foreign nationals from taking over business opportunities meant for locals. PBTs will continue to enforce the laws and regulations in place to prevent foreign nationals from operating businesses in Malaysia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can foreign nationals operate as hawkers or small traders?
A: No, local authorities (PBT) never recognized or permitted foreign nationals to operate as hawkers or small traders.
Q: What is the requirement for business licences?
A: Business licences are only issued to Malaysian citizens, and they may employ foreigners as workers or assistants, with the condition that they hold valid work passes or trade permits.
Q: What is the role of state governments in curbing foreign nationals’ operations?
A: State governments play a role in tightening requirements for new licence applications and renewals to curb foreign nationals from operating businesses.