State tourism industry players and stakeholders have asked the Government to impose stricter laws and take action on illegal tour operators, tour guides, amongst others. The government should impose stricter enforcement to protect true industry players and local stakeholders so that tourists’ dollars do not flow back to foreign countries.  

Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) president Datuk Tan Kok Liang, Malaysian Association of Hotels Sabah Chapter, Sabah Hotel Association, Malaysia Budget Hotel Association Sabah Chapter, Malaysia Chinese Tourism Association Sabah Chapter, Persatuan Agen Pelancongan dan Kereta Sewa Bumiputera Sabah and Sabah Backpacker Operators Association marked their presence in the conference.

Lawrence Chin, Matta Sabah Chapter Chairman suggested that the Government enforce existing laws to close down illegal travel agents operated by foreigners which are registered under/by locals as well as illegal tour agents, tour operators, tour guides, illegal vehicles and AirBnB that are operating through social media. 

He said “The State Government should ensure tourists’ money remains in Sabah and not flow out of the country. Many businesses are operating illegally in the country. Action must be taken against such unlicensed operators. Not only do they not pay local taxes, they are exiting money out of the country,”.