THE travel agency that operated a speedboat which allegedly entered Philippine waters illegally on Sunday has been identified and its licence suspended. 

The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry said in a statement yesterday that the company had had its operating licence suspended pending further investigation to determine its involvement in the incident. 

It said the suspension would remain in effect until the investigation was completed and it was proved that the agency was not involved in any illegal activity. 

“Should the investigation reveal any misconduct by the travel agency or any other party involved, appropriate action will be taken, which may include the permanent suspension of the licence,” the ministry said. 

On Sunday, Philippine authorities detained 15 people, including seven Malaysians and eight Chinese nationals, on suspicion of illegally entering the country’s waters. 

Quoting a Philippines News Agency report, Philippine Immigration Bureau commissioner Norman Tansingco in a statement said the 15 were detained in the waters of Sitangkai, near Tawi-Tawi in the southern region of the country, after being found to have entered Philippine territory on two speedboats without valid travel documents. 

The ministry also said in the same statement that based on confirmation from the Foreign Ministry, only three Malaysian citizens were detained by Philippine authorities in connection with the incident. 

“These individuals were held by Philippine authorities for their unauthorised entry into Philippine waters. 

“However, further investigation by the Philippine authorities revealed that they were legitimate tourists visiting the area for fishing activities and had no criminal intent,” it said. 

The ministry reminded all Malaysian travel agencies to ensure that their travel packages and arrangements complied with regulations and laws. 

It also cautioned that tourism packages involving visits to multiple countries within a single day could cause serious violations of international laws. 

“Compliance with the law is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the tourism industry and ensuring travel activities are safe and legal,” it said. – September 5, 2024.