Eight Thais held for running tomyam businesses on visit passes

BALIK PULAU: Eight Thai citizens were arrested for allegedly operating tomyam eateries using social visit passes and border passes during an integrated operation in Balik Pulau.

The operation was conducted by the Penang Immigration Department in collaboration with the Penang Island City Council, the Companies Commission of Malaysia, and the Department of Labour following public complaints.

Penang Immigration director Syamsul Fitry Ahmad said the operation, which ended at 1am, targeted foreign-run businesses, particularly those operated by Thais.

"Checks led to the arrest of five men and three women, aged between 30 and 40, suspected of running businesses without valid passes or permits.

"Some of them were using social visit passes and border passes," he said.

The eight will be taken to the Jawi Immigration Depot for further investigation and action.

During the same operation, the local council seized all equipment from two premises.

Syamsul Fitry reminded business operators, particularly tomyam restaurant owners, to comply with procedures governing business operations and foreign worker recruitment.

"We have a special pass for tomyam business operators. Employers must ensure that the recruitment of workers complies with all established procedures," he said.