WITH REGARDS to the latest announcement by the Terengannu State Government’s announcement of a uniform 10.00pm closing time on all karaoke centres statewide, MCA
Terengganu State Liaison Committee wishes to place on record their serious concern and disagreement with this measure.
MCA acknowledges the state government’s responsibility to maintain public order and address concerns raised by residents.
Nevertheless, public policy must strike a careful balance between responding to community issues and safeguarding people’s livelihoods.
“A sweeping, one-size-fits-all restriction reducing operating hours to 10.00 pm risks unfairly penalising compliant businesses and disrupting legitimate economic activity,” said MCA Terengganu State Liaison Committee Chairperson Dato’ Dr Monna Ong Siew Siew.
According to Ong, evening hours represent the peak business period for karaoke operators. Curtailing these hours will significantly affect revenue, cash flow and the ability to sustain staff employment.
In the present economic climate, where many small and medium-sized enterprises are still navigating recovery challenges, policy decisions should aim to support rather than further strain local businesses.
“In addition, we note that the state government has also imposed a complete prohibition on karaoke operations during the month of Ramadan,” said Ong.
While MCA fully respects the importance of religious observances and the need to maintain social harmony, regulatory measures in a diverse society should take into account the rights and reasonable space of different communities.
A blanket suspension of operations warrants broader consultation and careful assessment to ensure that, in respecting religious sensitivities, legitimate businesses are not subjected to disproportionate economic hardship.
Moreover, any regulatory adjustment of this nature should be preceded by structured engagement with industry representatives, trade bodies and relevant stakeholders.
Transparent consultation fosters better policy outcomes, encourages cooperation and strengthens public confidence in governance.
If the underlying concern relates to noise disturbances or public nuisance, the more appropriate response would be to tighten enforcement standards.
This may include clearer compliance guidelines, stricter monitoring, enhanced soundproofing requirements and targeted action against errant operators, rather than imposing across-the-board limitations on all premises regardless of their compliance record.
MCA Terengganu remains committed to promoting rational, balanced and pragmatic policies within the framework of respecting our diverse society.
“We therefore urge the state government to review the decision, initiate dialogue with affected parties and consider more flexible regulatory approaches that safeguard both community well-being and economic sustainability,” said Ong.
MCA further calls upon the state government to review this decision and engage in dialogue with affected operators to seek a more comprehensive and flexible solution that safeguards both economic activity and social order.
Positive governance must be built upon communication and mutual understanding, instead of sweeping restriction and curtailment. —Mar 1, 2025
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