Warning on abuse of visa-free entry for illegal employment

KOTA KINABALU (Jan 19): Sabah China Chamber of Commerce (SCCC) President Datuk Frankie Liew and Sabah Democratic Action Party (DAP) chairman Datuk Ginger Phoong have called on all parties to remain vigilant against the abuse of tourist or social visa-free entry for illegal employment in Sabah.

They said such practices could disrupt the local labour market and undermine the legitimate interests of local businesses, stressing that the matter must be addressed seriously.

The call was made during a courtesy visit by a SCCC delegation, led by Liew, to Phoong who is the former Sabah Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship.

Both sides exchanged views on Sabah–China economic cooperation, industrial development and talent cultivation.

Phoong said he had maintained close and constructive engagement with the SCCC leadership over the years in promoting cooperation between Sabah and China in trade, investment and industrial development.

He expressed hope that bilateral relations would continue to deepen and bring more development opportunities to Sabah.

During the meeting and subsequent dinner discussion, Phoong reiterated his “industrial-led prosperity” development approach. He said Sabah must prioritise the training and retention of technical talent, promote innovation-driven manufacturing, and utilise new technologies to upgrade infrastructure to ensure sustainable economic growth.

He also reminded all parties to remain alert against individuals exploiting visa-free entry to engage in illegal employment activities in Sabah, noting that such actions could negatively affect the local workforce and business environment.

During the visit, the Sabah China Chamber of Commerce formally reappointed Phoong as its Honorary Advisor and invited him to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the Chamber’s 3rd Council on March 16 at Hakka Hall.

Liew praised Phoong for his contributions to Sabah–China economic ties, noting his role in organising the Sabah–China Business Summit during the 50th anniversary of Malaysia–China diplomatic relations and leading business delegations to China, including Hubei and Zhejiang.

He said the SCCC will continue to serve as a bridge between Sabah and China to strengthen economic cooperation and support long-term development in the state.

Members of the SCCC delegation present were Deputy President Brett Chua; Vice Presidents Ir. Ts. Tan KJ, JP, Datuk Jonathan Koh, JP, and Chiew Heng Hock and committee members Hong Jia Hao, Joanis Yee, Cyndi Liu and Wong Chung Ming.