Some entertainment outlets charging extra for non-cash payments, claim patrons
PETALING JAYA: Carrying cash has become a necessity rather than a preference for some patrons at entertainment outlets, who claim that certain places charge more for cashless payments.
Wishing only to be identified as Arvin, one patron said cash-paying customers were given a discount on their bills, while those who settled using bank cards or e-wallets were charged additional fees.
In some cases, he claimed, the difference was more than RM300.
“We are constantly encouraged to embrace online transactions, yet situations like this make us feel that we have no choice but to carry cash.
“Nobody wants to carry a large amount of money when going out at night,” he said.
Another customer, who wished to be known as Jason, shared his experience at a live band lounge in Kuala Lumpur.
He claimed that when it was time to settle the bill, a worker told him that a service charge would be imposed for cashless payment.
“If it is really a service charge, why was the difference so huge compared with paying in cash?” he said.
“What surprised me even more was that I was not given a receipt for the cash payment.
“I worry that there could be elements of manipulation or even possible offences under the law,” he added.
Another consumer, James, said the practice of imposing extra charges for cashless payment had been ongoing for two to three years.
He said customers were being unfairly penalised for embracing technology that was supposed to make daily transactions more convenient.
“Technology should make life easier, not more expensive.
“If the difference was only a few ringgit, perhaps people could accept it, but the charges are simply unreasonable,” he pointed out.
James also expressed concern about the large amounts of cash being handled at some premises.
“There are also questions about whether such practices could create opportunities for illegal activities, including money laundering.”
He also questioned whether sufficient action had been taken against operators allegedly imposing additional charges on customers.
“People want to know why this has been allowed to continue for years.
“Consumers deserve transparency, especially when additional charges are involved.
“They should not have to choose between the convenience of going cashless and paying significantly more for a night out,” he said.
A worker at an entertainment outlet, who declined to be named, claimed that they were merely following instructions from the management.
He said they were told not to engage in lengthy conversations with customers during the payment process.
“Our supervisor told us not to talk too much to customers during payment.
“But if customers pay in cash, the amount is cheaper and there is no need to issue a receipt,” the employee claimed.
