The different types of permits issued for foreign workers are causing problems for businesses employing them in Sabah, Parti Warisan Sabah (Warisan) vice-president Junz Wong said.

In a statement, Wong, who is also Likas assemblyperson, said he has of late received complaints from businesses about operations carried out by various enforcement agencies against migrant workers.

"Warisan stands by the rule of law that only those with the relevant legal documents be allowed to work in the state.

"However, members of the business community say their workers are being hauled up by different authorities because of the absence of a standardised permit recognised by all the authorities," he said, citing the different types of "special passes" issued in the state.

These are the IMM13, permits issued by the Chief Minister's Department, as well as documents for the Bajau Laut people.

"While police recognise one, the Immigration Department would not. When Esscom says OK, the Maritime Department says no," he said, adding that the lack of the uniformity of recognition by the authorities was a long-standing problem.

Wong said he had raised the issue in the state assembly many times, but to no avail.

He then urged the state government to use its autonomous immigration powers to create a standardised work pass for all foreign workers in Sabah.

"If the Barisan Nasional-led state government cannot do this, then a Warisan-led state government will.

"Warisan will review the flawed system we have in place and develop mechanisms by engaging with the relevant stakeholders, to create a business-friendly environment, while ensuring the interests of the state and its people are protected."

The standardised work pass system would regulate foreign workers in the state and make it easier for businesses, as well as for the authorities, Wong added.