January 22, 2026
World
World
TOKYO, Jan 22 — Japan has halted the restart of the world’s largest nuclear power plant just hours after it began, though the reactor remains “stable,” the operator said.
KUALA LUMPUR, July 28 — Foreign nationals are not permitted to apply for or hold hawker licences, small trader permits, or business premises licences, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming clarified today.
Addressing the Dewan Rakyat during Question Time, Nga emphasised that this long-standing policy aligns with current regulations under hawker and trade by-laws.
He was responding to a question from Hulu Selangor MP Mohd Hasnizan Harun regarding the government’s stance on foreign nationals operating retail businesses in Malaysia.
“Under the hawkers by-laws, local authorities (PBT) do not allow foreign nationals to act as hawkers or small traders. They are also prohibited from hiring foreign nationals as workers or assistants under hawker permits within PBT-managed areas,” Nga stated.
He explained that the policy aims to prioritise local citizens by offering business opportunities with subsidised rental schemes. Allowing foreign participation in this space would undermine that objective.
Reinforcing the message, Nga cited a Malay proverb: "Kera di hutan disusukan, anak di rumah mati kelaparan," underscoring the importance of prioritising Malaysians over outsiders.
However, he noted that foreigners may still be employed in other licensed business categories, provided they hold valid work permits.
Nga issued a stern reminder that any violation of licence conditions will result in strict enforcement, including seizure of goods, fines, business closure, or licence revocation.
