IPOH: Despite receiving warnings and fines from the Ipoh City Council, a cafe on Jalan Papan in Canning Garden continues to operate illegally.
The cafe has been in business since January last year, causing issues such as haphazard parking, congestion, and littering for local residents.
Residents submitted a petition and met with the council for the first time on June 12, 2023, followed by a second meeting on July 6, 2023.
Resident spokesman S. Ramanieswaran stated that during the second meeting, the council confirmed that the cafe premises are still listed as a residential property.
Mayor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin informed them that the property would not be gazetted for commercial use.
On Nov 30, the mayor reiterated that the operator was ordered to cease operations, yet the cafe remains in business.
Ramanieswaran and residents presented documents to the media showing correspondence with the council.
Ramanieswaran also filed a police report on Aug 19 after receiving threatening calls urging him not to oppose the business.
He highlighted that the cafe's operations, ongoing for 21 months, have caused numerous problems for residents.
Resident Hemavathy DM Suppiah noted an increase in cars and noise since the cafe opened, with customers parking across the street, blocking driveways, and invading privacy.
She added that senior citizens feel unsafe walking due to speeding vehicles and children no longer cycle in the area.
Hemavathy called for authorities to take immediate action to close the cafe.
Mayor Rumaizi confirmed via text that the cafe lacks approval to operate.
Ipoh Timur MP Howard Lee acknowledged the issue, expressing empathy for residents' concerns.
A town hall session was held with residents and cafe representatives, where residents' grievances were clearly voiced.
Lee stated that the council is allowing the process to run its course and is taking further action.
He emphasised that the situation is under the council's jurisdiction and the law will take its course.
