Mirians see benefits in proposed clampdown on 24-hour eateries
MIRI: The Health Ministry’s proposal to limit eateries to closing no later than midnight has been seen as a positive move by some Mirians.
Retiree Dr Uma Devi said the proposal has its benefits in terms of health and family time.
Eating late is not good for health and I advise those working on shift to have more discipline by bringing along cooked food from home as it will allow a person to save more from buying food outside and not to mention the unnecessary air pollution from all the vehicles at night. Dr Uma Devi, former Miri Hospital director
“Eating late is not good for health and I advise those working on shift to have more discipline by bringing along cooked food from home as it will allow a person to save more from buying food outside and not to mention the unnecessary air pollution from all the vehicles at night,” she said.
“In other countries, most eateries and restaurants close before midnight and I believe it is more meaningful to stay at home and as a developing nation we should give more priority to health and more time with family.”
The former Miri Hospital director stressed productivity could be affected if late night culture continues as young people tend to spend too much idle time in such places.
“NCDs (non- communicable diseases) are on the rise and Malaysia as the highest in Southeast Asia for diabetes disease and now with mental issues on the rise as well, it is vital for Malaysians to change and make health their first priority.
“How can one be productive if such culture continues and certainly companies and institutes would want candidates who are physically and mentally fit, therefore for the business sector, I believe they have a social obligation to help the country in this issue as well,” she said.
Hilmi Ismail, who is self- employed, also supported the proposal.
“The proposal is good in order to help Malaysians improve our health and curb the unhealthy eating habits because now it has become a habit that could cause more harm than good. This is also an opportunity for restaurants to do food delivery if there is anyone craving for some midnight food and on the other hand, if the proposal is accepted by the government, I hope the food outlet will be allowed to operate 24-hour during Ramadan,” he said.
A special cabinet committee had discussed limiting eatery operating hours to midnight as a method to encourage healthier living. At present, fast food outlets, hotels and other eateries operate 24 hours.