The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (MOTAC) has stepped up enforcement against unlicensed tourism operators and tour drivers following an operation conducted in Kuala Lumpur on Aug 12 and 13.
The operation followed intelligence gathered by MOTAC enforcement officers, as well as complaints and information from the public, industry players and tourism associations. Officers inspected three tourist attractions, nine business premises and three individuals, issuing 15 inspection notices for various offences under the Tourism Industry Act 1992 (Act 482).
Of the notices issued, nine were issued under subsection 5(2) for operating a tourism business without a valid licence. In a separate effort carried out with the Kuala Lumpur Tourist Guide Association (KLTGA), MOTAC also identified individuals suspected of providing tour guide services without valid licences and took enforcement action under subsection 21(1).
Beyond unlicensed tour services, the operation uncovered other offences, including the use of private or unlicensed vehicles for tourist transport, failure to comply with licence conditions and dealings with unlicensed parties. MOTAC said vehicles found to be operating without the required licences would be dealt with in cooperation with the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) and Road Transport Department (JPJ).
Further investigations will now be carried out before legal action is taken against individuals, businesses, vehicle owners and other parties involved.
MOTAC warned that unlicensed parties must not provide tourism services, including tour guiding, tourist transport, accommodation or the organisation of tourism activities, whether through online platforms, social media or other channels.
Those found in breach may face a compound of up to RM250,000 or, upon conviction, a fine of up to RM500,000, imprisonment of up to 10 years, or both under Act 482.
