18 hours ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Kelantan's 'Mini Dhaka' raises concerns over foreign business dominance, overcrowding
KOTA BARU: An area in Kelantan, often dubbed "Mini Dhaka" by locals due to its high concentration of Bangladeshi and Pakistani migrant workers, has come under scrutiny amid growing concerns over overcrowding and the proliferation of foreign-run businesses.
The term, initially used to describe a cluster of densely populated rental homes, is now increasingly associated with parts of Jalan Dato' Pati and Jalan Doktor, where foreign nationals are said to be taking over local business premises.
According to local sources, many of these foreign entrepreneurs, primarily from Bangladesh and Pakistan, began opening grocery shops and restaurants after marrying local women and settling in the state.
The trend, they said, picked up pace after the Covid-19 pandemic hit the country.
"These areas are slowly transforming into a foreign commercial hub. They've opened shops, eateries and mini markets. On weekdays, it's relatively quiet, but come weekends, especially on Fridays, the place is packed," said a trader operating nearby.
He added that most of the customers are fellow foreign workers, many of whom are employed as general labourers or plantation workers across Kelantan.
"There's a noticeable shift. Local businesses are being edged out, and the clientele is mostly made up of foreign nationals," the trader said.
Long-time residents and local business operators have voiced concerns over the impact on local commerce and social balance.
Meanwhile, a spokesman from the local municipal council said the authorities are aware of the issue and are working with enforcement agencies to ensure proper documentation, business licensing and compliance with health regulations.
He said regular inspections are being planned to monitor business operations in the affected areas.
"The municipal council and relevant enforcement agencies are aware of public concerns, and action will be taken where necessary.
"It is important to ensure business regulations are adhered to and that the community remains balanced and secure," he added.
In January last year, four children were among nearly 300 undocumented foreigners detained during a special operation codenamed "Ops Kutip" in the town area.
The operation, conducted in what is now referred to as Kelantan's "Mini Dhaka", was a joint effort involving the Immigration Department, police, and the Kota Baru Municipal Council.
