Rajendran: Previously there was no specific guidelines to address the impact of vibrations.
LATE-night entertainment outlets with music blaring into the wee hours have caught the attention of Penang Island City Council (MBPP) following complaints from residents and hotel guests.
To measure how loud the noise gets, the local council will instal special monitoring devices to collect data on sound levels, including the low-frequency bass that vibrates through buildings until as late as 3am.
State publisher Buletin Mutiara reported that the move came as MBPP unanimously approved new Guidelines for Noise Control at Entertainment Premises, which took effect from Jan 1, 2026.
Mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said the guidelines were meant to create a more comfortable environment, especially in George Town where nightspots sat cheek by jowl with hotels and residential areas.
He said complaints often arose even when music did not exceed permitted levels.
“The bass can still be strong enough to create vibrations that disturb people.
“Although entertainment licences allow operations until 3am, most people, especially hotel guests, usually go to bed much earlier,” he acknowledged.
Rajendran said there had previously been no specific guidelines to address this type of noise disturbance.
“When issues arise, we study them and issue guidelines based on our findings,” he told reporters after a council meeting at MBPP headquarters.
City councillor and public health standing committee alternate chairman Tan Soo Siang said MBPP was working with sound engineering experts to better understand the problem.
She said the monitoring devices would be installed at locations determined by the city council, with data transmitted online to a control centre for analysis and reporting.
“This includes setting different standards for morning, afternoon and night, as well as according to the surrounding area.
“Once the studies are completed, we will determine suitable solutions, including appropriate frequency limits, so that noise disturbances can be reduced,” said Tan.
