SHAH ALAM, April 22 — Enforcement that targets licensed businesses while leaving illegal operators largely untouched risks sending the wrong message to traders, said Seri Kembangan assemblyman Wong Siew Ki.
The state government backbencher said there is a trend of illegal auto shops, including those offering bodywork and spray-painting services, operating in the Seri Kembangan commercial centre.
“Such (businesses) should only be allowed in designated industrial areas, but many are operating without proper approvals in commercial zones,” she said when debating the Royal address at the Selangor State Legislative Assembly here today.
Wong added that enforcement by the Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ) has raised concerns among operators after licensed restaurants were fined.
“During enforcement operations, compounds and notices were issued to licensed restaurants, while illegal workshops did not appear to face similar action.
“This could create the perception that operating without a licence is safer than complying with regulations.”
She urged the MBSJ Enforcement Department to act firmly against unauthorised vehicle workshops, while also allowing operators reasonable timeframes to move their businesses to industrial zones.
“This matter needs to be addressed more seriously to ensure fair enforcement and to protect residents and legitimate business operators,” Wong said.
