The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry conducted a two-day enforcement operation in Kuala Lumpur on August 12 and 13, 2026, issuing 15 inspection notices for violations of the Tourism Industry Act 1992 [1, 2, 3]. Nine of the notices were for operating a tourism business without a valid licence under Subsection 5(2) of the Act [1, 2, 3].
During the operation, officials inspected three tourist locations, nine business premises, and three individuals involved in tourism activities [1, 2, 3]. The ministry collaborated with the Kuala Lumpur Tourist Guide Association to identify persons conducting tourist guide services without licenses and took enforcement action under Subsection 21(1) [1, 2, 3].
Other violations detected included use of private or unlicensed vehicles for tourist transport, breaches of licence conditions, and business dealings with unlicensed operators [1, 2, 3]. Private or unlicensed vehicles identified will undergo further investigation by the Land Public Transport Agency and Road Transport Department before legal action is taken [1, 2, 3].
The ministry warned all unlicensed parties against providing tourism-related services including guiding, transportation, accommodation, or organizing tours through any channel [2, 3]. Offenders face compounds of up to RM250,000. Upon conviction, they may be fined up to RM500,000, imprisoned for up to 10 years, or both [2, 3].
To encourage public vigilance, the ministry urged the public and industry players to report suspected illegal tourism activities via the Public Complaints Management System at https://motac.spab.gov.my/eApps/system/index.do [1, 2, 3].
In a statement, the ministry said, "Motac remains committed to enforcing the law thoroughly, firmly and effectively, guided by the principles of good governance, fairness, integrity, and accountability, in line with the Malaysia Madani vision" [3].
