Kuala lumpur: 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.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Liew stated in a Facebook post that the approach aims to ensure a level playing field for Malaysian companies and industries. This initiative 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, particularly 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 highlighted the government's awareness 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. The prime minister noted that such practices could adversely affect employment opportunities for Malaysians.