Nightclub operators keen to restart business

PETALING JAYA: While outlets with restaurant and bar licences can already operate, operators are hoping that nightclubs too will be allowed to resume operations soon.

Restaurant and Bistro Owners Association vice-president Jeremy Lim said most bars and pubs hold restaurant and bar licences, hence they are allowed to operate.

However, nightclubs have entertainment licences. Lim added that engagement with the government over the reopening of nightclubs and outlets with entertainment licences is on-going.

“We have been very fortunate to have started engagement with YB Khairy Jamaluddin (Health Minister),” he said while adding that the discussions have been “productive”.

“Hopefully, there can be further developments on this in the coming weeks,” he added.

Khairy previously said nightclubs would still be on the negative list and would not be allowed to reopen as Malaysia starts its transition to the endemic stage from April 1.

Bangsar Restaurant Bar Owners Association spokesman Joshua Bilique noted many owners had converted their licences to that of restaurant and bar since the ban on nightclubs was implemented.

“But its been very tough for most of us to compete with the food industry and some were forced to shutdown for good,” he said.

Adding that the pandemic has taken a toll on revenue, Joshua said closing the outlets at midnight had also impacted business.

Meanwhile, the associations also hope that the government will come up with better standard operating procedures (SOP) for the entertainment industry.

Joshua said restaurants and bars are not allowed to have live bands and deejays.

“Buskers are allowed to perform but live bands are not allowed. What is the difference between these two?” he asked.

Lim also echoed Joshua’s concern over the SOPs for the entertainment industry.

He said engagements have also been going on with the Selangor state authorities.

“What the local government and state government fail to recognise and observe is that within the industry, there are participants such as performers and producers of shows. These people are suffering,” he said.

He urged the state government to consider the livelihood aspect of performers.