KOTA KINABALU: Sabah takes note of the federal government's statement on possible corruption in curbing illegal tourism operations in Semporna, said the state assistant tourism minister today
Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said: "There is a tourism council in every district that will raise issues for discussion at a higher level.
"(Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister) Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing's statement is based on information he received. But we take note of the statement on possible corruption.
"We are aware that, should it happen, it would tarnish the reputation of Semporna as a tourism destination."
He said this after Regatta Lepa in Semporna.
Yesterday, Tiong, on his Facebook page, had raised the possibility of illegal dealings between the Semporna Municipal Council and foreigners illegally operating travel agencies.
Tiong had also expressed disappointment about the failure to act by the local authorities and police to crack down on the foreigners.
He alleged that information on the crackdown had been leaked.
On Oct 16, seven Chinese nationals were arrested for misusing their social visit pass to work at a resort construction site in Semporna.
On Oct 30, the Sabah Immigration Department deported 24 China nationals.
Joniston, who is Sabah Tourism Board chairman, said local councils that had pledged corruption-free governance would find the best way to prevent foreigners from operating illegally.
Meanwhile, when asked about Datuk Seri Hasmiza Othman, or "Datuk Seri Vida", engaging in underwater activities off Sipadan during its one-month closure, Joniston said Sabah Parks likely had its own reason for allowing her to be there.
"I was told that the Sabah Parks director had given an explanation about the incident, which is related to promoting it."
Since last year, Sabah Parks has chosen November to provide a "recovery month" for the island.