KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 — The Ministry of Finance (MOF) is leading relevant ministries and agencies in adopting a “whole-of-government” approach to address the illegal influx of foreign products, services and businesses, said Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong.

In a Facebook post today, Liew said the approach aims to ensure a level playing field for Malaysian companies and industries.

He said it also seeks to ensure that all business activities fully comply with Malaysia’s laws and regulations, and that all imported products adhere to the relevant standards, especially for electrical goods, food, and construction materials.

On June 8, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed concern over the growing number of foreigners who misuse visitor and student visas to engage in business activities in Malaysia.

Anwar said the government is aware of the threat posed by some foreign nationals who enter the country on tourist or student visas but subsequently operate businesses, including in the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) sector.

According to the prime minister, such practices can adversely affect employment opportunities for Malaysians. — Bernama