HEALTH Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad’s response to a consumer group’s plea to cancel the 24-hour operating licences of eateries is unnecessary, said Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng.

Lim was responding to Dr Dzulkefly’s statement on Tuesday (April 23) that the government would evaluate the Consumers’ Association of Penang’s (CAP) call for said licences to be cancelled to reduce the negative effects of late-night meals.

According to Dr Dzulkefly, the suggestion needs to be fine-tuned, and that stakeholders should also be engaged to ensure a thorough understanding of the issue and a clear and effective solution.

On this matter, Lim said there are some good reasons why banning 24-hour eateries is not necessary, among them the fact that these eateries are a big part of Malaysia’s economy.

“24-hour eateries play a vital role in Malaysia’s economy by providing employment opportunities and generating revenue through food sales and tourism,” the DAP MP said in a statement on Wednesday (April 24).

“Prohibiting them would lead to job losses and a decrease in economic activity.”

Lim said these eateries also offer convenience and accessibility to individuals with diverse schedules, including late-shift workers, travellers arriving at unconventional hours, and those with non-traditional lifestyles.

“Furthermore, late-night eateries serve as important social venues where friends and family members can gather after work or during weekends to enjoy meals and bond,” Lim remarked.

“Banning them could impede social interactions and recreational activities, negatively affecting community cohesion and mental well-being.”

Lim further noted that Malaysia is renowned for its diverse food culture, and 24-hour eateries contribute to this reputation by offering a wide array of culinary options that reflect the country’s rich gastronomic heritage.

“Prohibiting them would restrict food choices and diminish Malaysia’s standing as a food paradise,” he added.

On Monday (April 22), CAP president Mohideen Abdul Kader said that limiting the intake of late-night meals would be healthier for Malaysians, who are ranked as the most obese adults in Southeast Asia, Malaysiakini reported.

“Even though shortening the operating hours for eateries would not completely solve the obesity issue in Malaysia, it would help reduce late-night eating among Malaysians,” he was quoted as saying. - April 24, 2024 

https://focusmalaysia.my/lip-eng-health-ministers-response-to-abolition-of-24-hour-eateries-unnecessary/