KUCHING: Michael Kong, Special Assistant to YB Chong Chieng Jen, urged the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) to follow proper procedures before referring illegal moneylending cases to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
He said MBKS recently wrote to MCMC about phone numbers found on illegal moneylending advertisements and sought his help to expedite follow-up actions.
“I am willing to assist, but I urge MBKS to share a copy of their letter so I can do the needful,” he said.
Kong stressed that MBKS must first verify whether the moneylenders are licensed through the Ministry of Housing and Local Government or the relevant District Offices. “If they are licensed, it is only a breach of MBKS’ advertising bylaws. If unlicensed, it constitutes illegal moneylending, which gives MCMC the legal basis to act,” he explained.
He added that referring cases to MCMC without verification risks using the commission to enforce MBKS’ local bylaws, which is beyond its mandate. “MBKS should first lodge a police report with the phone numbers. Once confirmed as unlicensed operators, a copy can be sent to MCMC to block the numbers. This ensures proper coordination between MBKS, the police, and MCMC,” he said.
Kong also noted that the Ministry of Communications has assured support but urged MBKS to take responsibility and follow due process instead of passing the task to others.
By Connie Chieng