Anindita Chatterjee
Updated on: October 17, 2024 9:38 am GMT
In a determined effort to crack down on illegal employment practices, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has issued over 1,200 fines to local businesses for hiring foreign workers without valid permits. This crackdown, part of various organized operations throughout the year, highlights a significant concern for local regulations governing work permits.
Crackdown on Illegal Employment
Since January, DBKL has targeted businesses in the city under its “Ops Tebah” initiative, translating to “Strict Action Against Illegal Activities.” This comprehensive operation includes collaboration from multiple government agencies, such as the police, the Immigration Department, and the Customs Department. The primary aim is to enforce compliance with the current employment laws and maintain fair practices in the labor market.
- 1,225 compound notices issued
- Four business premises permanently closed
- 59 more establishments monitored during separate operations
These steps are part of ongoing efforts to protect local workers and enforce fair labor practices.
Details of the Operations
The operations have been quite extensive. DBKL released a statement indicating that four business locations were shut down entirely when it was found that they were being run solely by foreign workers. Additionally, DBKL’s inspections uncovered several other business violations:
- 15 establishments were ordered to cease operations.
- 53 notices were issued for failing to comply with work permit regulations.
- 22 investigation papers initiated for further examination.
During these operations, a staggering 2,261 items were also confiscated, demonstrating the scale of the enforcement efforts.
Recent Raids Highlight Enforcement Efforts
Recent raids have been particularly indicative of the ongoing enforcement measures. On September 12, DBKL closed down two sites in Taman Maluri, discovering they were operated by foreign traders without proper permits. Such actions included the seizure of:
- Stalls
- Canopies
- Other essential equipment
These items were taken to a DBKL storage facility in Taman Miharja for documentation and processing.
Another operation on September 25 led to the shutdown of four additional premises that lacked proper business licenses and employed foreign workers unlawfully. DBKL emphasized that more enforcement actions will be taken as needed to curb these practices.
Future Plans for Enforcement
DBKL’s statement promises continued vigilance, stating, “Periodic operations will take place to ensure compliance with employment laws in Kuala Lumpur.” This ongoing strategy signals their commitment to tackling the issue head-on, ensuring that local employers adhere to hiring regulations.
In addition to shutting down businesses, DBKL has recommended the cancellation of business licenses for some local employers involved in these illegal hiring practices. As DBKL enforces these regulations, they encourage the public to report any suspicious activities related to unauthorized foreign employment.
- Public can report issues at: adu@kl.dbkl.gov.my
Conclusion
DBKL is working hard to stop illegal job practices and keep the job market fair in Kuala Lumpur. This year, they have already given out more than 1,200 fines to businesses that don’t follow the rules about hiring foreign workers. As they continue this important work, it’s essential for business owners and everyone in the community to understand and follow these rules. This will help create a fair and legal economy for everyone.
