GEORGE TOWN: Six foreign opera performers have been detained by the Immigration Department for performing without valid permits.
The six, including four Taiwanese and two Singaporeans, were detained following a recent operation at a temple compound in Butterworth.
The foreign performers, aged 40 to 60, were in full-costume and mid-performance when Immigration officers arrived.
State Immigration Department director Nur Zulfa Ibrahim said they received complaints that foreigners were performing there without valid permits.
"Checks revealed they were only granted Social Visit Passes," Nur Zulfa said in a statement.
She said the performers are being probed for violating their pass conditions as stipulated under Regulation 11(7)(a) of the Immigration Regulations.
"Further investigations will be conducted."
The opera performers each face a maximum of six months in jail and a fine of up to RM1,000 or both, upon conviction for the offence.
Nur Zulfa said all foreign artists performing in Malaysia must apply for permits from the Central Agency Committee for Application for Filming and Foreign Artists Presentations (PUSPAL).
"Strict action will be taken against anyone violating the Immigration Act and Immigration Regulations."