By Fitri Hazim Hazam
SHAH ALAM, Nov 29 — The Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) has never permitted foreign residents to apply for or own business premises licenses, in accordance with the Selangor State Secretary's Circular (PBT Section) Number 1 in 2020.
Acting Mayor Cheremi Tarman said the council constantly monitors business activities on-premises to address issues related to illegal businesses, including those which employ foreign nationals.
"According to the circular, the state government does not recognise or allow foreign nationals to be street vendors or small traders. Foreign workers are also not permitted.
"MBSA has never allowed any foreign nationals to apply for or own business premises, including pasar malam, stalls, public markets, and kiosks. It is only for Malaysian citizens," he said during the council's full meeting today.
Cheremi added that strict actions will be taken, including revoking licenses for any renters who sublet business premises to foreign nationals.
"MBSA's Licensing Department, together with the Enforcement Department, has also issued a circular to all traders to comply with licensing requirements and not employ foreign nationals," he said.
Meanwhile, a total of RM204.8 million in compound arrears for various offences has been recorded by MBSA since 1978.
Speaking after the meeting, Cheremi said the arrears, from the council's establishment until last September, involved 2,931,832 compound notices.
"The highest number of compounds issued is for parking offences, including failing to clearly and validly display parking coupons. In addition, other types of offences with high arrears include overloading vehicles, premises without a business license, and stall traders operating without a permit," he said.
MBSA frequently organises campaigns, including expanding online payment channels, to ensure compound owners settle their arrears.
"We impose compounds for educational purposes to encourage compliance with established regulations rather than punishing the community.
"Various incentives are also provided, such as the 'Orang Kena Kompaun' (OKK), who only needs to pay RM10 within 24 hours from the date the compound is issued, and as such the public should take advantage of the opportunity," he said.
