A furniture factory operating without a license in Kuala Kangsar was raided on Monday, Feb 23, leading to the seizure of goods valued at RM734,990 and the arrest of its owner. The operation, conducted by multiple agencies, highlighted the ongoing challenges of unregulated industrial activity in the region.

Operation Involves Multiple Agencies

The raid took place at 10:30 a.m. and involved the Northern Brigade Commander of the General Operations Force Ulu Kinta, SAC Balveer Singh Mahindar Singh, as well as the police, the Kuala Kangsar District Forestry Office, the Kuala Kangsar Municipal Council (MPKK), and the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN). The operation resulted in the arrest of a 43-year-old local man believed to be the factory owner.

SAC Balveer Singh Mahindar Singh stated that the inspection of the premises revealed the owner had failed to produce a permit or license to operate the factory, as required under Section 3(1) of the Perak Wood-Based Industries Enactment 1987. Preliminary investigations indicated that the factory had been operating since early 2025 without a valid approval from the authorities.

According to the statement, the owner had previously received two reminder notices from the Kuala Kangsar District Forestry Office, urging him to apply for a license, but he did not comply with the directives.

Seized Goods and Legal Consequences

During the raid, authorities confiscated a variety of machines and equipment used in furniture manufacturing, along with assorted plywood boards and semi-finished furniture. The total estimated value of the seized items was RM734,990.

The case has been handed over to the Kuala Kangsar District Forestry Office for further investigation under Section 3(1) of the Perak Wood-Based Industries Enactment 1987. Additionally, MPKK issued two compounds to the owner for violations including not displaying a business signboard and lacking a proper business license.

Impact on Local Industry

The raid has sparked discussions about the enforcement of industrial regulations in Perak. The Perak Wood-Based Industries Enactment 1987 was introduced to ensure that furniture manufacturing operations meet certain environmental and safety standards. However, the incident has raised concerns about the effectiveness of oversight in small towns like Kuala Kangsar.

According to a local business association, unlicensed factories have become a growing problem in the region, often operating in the shadows to avoid taxes and regulatory compliance. The association noted that these operations not only pose a risk to public safety but also undercut licensed businesses that follow proper procedures.

SAC Balveer Singh Mahindar Singh emphasized that the operation was part of a broader initiative to crack down on illegal industrial activities. ‘We are committed to enforcing the law and ensuring that all businesses operate within the legal framework,’ he said in a statement.

The incident also highlights the need for stronger collaboration between local authorities and national agencies to ensure that industries comply with legal requirements. Experts suggest that increased penalties and better enforcement mechanisms could help deter similar cases in the future.

The case is expected to be reviewed by the Kuala Kangsar District Forestry Office, with further legal actions pending. The owner may face fines or other penalties depending on the outcome of the investigation.