Cut power supply at illegal liquor shops, urges CAP

KOUSALYA SELVAM
KOUSALYA SELVAM
08 Jan 2023 08:34pm
Photo source : 123rf
Photo source : 123rf
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SHAH ALAM - Consumer association of Penang education officer (CAP) education officer N V Subbarow Narayanan has urged authorities to cut off the power supply of illegal liquor shop.

"For illegal shops, the local councils must act, seal unlicensed shops, and cut their power supply.

"Don't give licences to liquor shops operating next to schools and places of worship," he told Sinar Daily.

Subbarow lauded the Singapore government, which imposed restrictions on where alcohol should be sold and during what period of time.

"In Singapore, alcohol shops are fully closed on weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and special holidays.

"All alcohol shops are also closed on religious festival days. This is the only way we can control social issues," he said.

Subbarow went on to say that alcohol should not be sold in food marts, 24 hour shops, mini markets, or cash and carry shops.

Therefore, he stressed that a harsh penalty must be imposed on those who do not abide by this law.

"Coffee shops, medicine shops, and food restaurants should not be allowed to sell alcohol.

"A heavy penalty should be given to those who break the law; also fine those who drink and drive," he said.

Subbarow also urged the government to raise awareness through education about the dangers of alcohol.

"If we closed all the shops, then more houses will become mini bars and more social problems will arise.

"So we must educate the public on the dangers of alcohol. Set the age limit so that more of the younger generation will not be influenced.

"Also increase the licence fees for shops, bars, and other outlets selling alcohol and abolish duty free alcohol, including on flights," he explained.

When asked the public's opinion on banning alcohol after 10pm, almost everyone lauded this act if it took place.

Deivanai Murliah, 50, a business owner, said; "Banning alcohol after 10pm will be a great move, we have been seeing many drink-and-drive cases, which mostly occur during midnight. I support it 100 per cent.

Further, Michelle Yong, 34, housewife said; "This act can be possible, but I think it might be hard to restrict in the beginning since most happening areas in KL sell alcohol after 10pm, it's what their business is about.

"But somehow, this move can reduce the probability of accidents, crimes, and unconscious behaviour after being drunk," she said.

Yesterday, Ramesh Rao Krishnan Naidu the special officer in charge of Indian affairs to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi urged the government to ban the sale of alcohol after 10pm in all 24-hour premises.

He said the consumption of alcohol late at night would usually be excessive, thus increasing the risk of incidents such as road accidents, fights, and crime.