KUCHING: Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has expressed concern over the misuse of social visit passes by “outsiders” who disguise themselves as tourists but are actually working in the state.
He said strict enforcement of immigration and labour laws is necessary to address this issue.
“Outsiders entering Sarawak on social visit passes are required to apply for a work permit if they come here to check or inspect projects or plants of their companies’ operations,” he told reporters after chairing the state youth organisation (Saberkas) executive committee meeting yesterday.
Abdul Karim noted that the state has been lenient in enforcing labour laws in the past, allowing people to come for business purposes or medical work without strict scrutiny.
However, he said the increasing trend of individuals in industries like oil and gas and oil palm coming in and out of the state without adhering to the law.
“The mistake is partly also on us because we do not carry out the enforcement of our rights under the immigration and labour laws that are given to us,” he said.
“Therefore, the law needs to be strictly enforced or fine-tuned, especially when we are facing the oil and gas industry.”
To ensure compliance, Abdul Karim said companies operating in Sarawak must obtain a business license and their employees must secure work permits.
He emphasised that individuals who come to the state for short-term inspections using social visit passes are violating labour laws and could face legal action.
The state government plans to implement stricter procedures to enforce labour laws, including conducting frequent checks on companies and their premises.
Additionally, stricter enforcement will be carried out at entry points like airports, ports, and border posts.
“When you come in to Sarawak, just like we go overseas, we will ask you why are you here for, how many days you will be here and we also ask do you have a work permit,” he said.
“If you say that you work with Petronas or with plantation companies, and come to Sarawak for work purpose, then we will ask you to show your work permit.”
Those without a valid work permit will be denied entry into Sarawak.
The state government is also working to streamline the work permit application process through online platforms.
