Authorities must be consistent against vice

REFERRING to the letter “Drinking alcohol will slowly eat away at life” ( The Star, Sept 23), I couldn’t agree more with the writer.

Yes, uncontrolled liquor consumption can lead to poverty, divorce, lifestyle diseases, failed relationships and many other social problems.

But what impact would the cancellation of the beer festival have on these problems?

Does the Government give out a consistent message all the time?

Does the common man feel that the authorities are sincere in combating vice activities?

I go to Sentul, Brickfields, Lebuh Ampang, Jalan Bangsar and many other streets in Kuala Lumpur frequently. Here is the reality on the ground:

1. Over the last couple of years, liquor shops have been mushrooming in these areas, which means licences are easily available;

2. The shops are open after 10pm and customers can buy their liquor through the grilles;

3. The shops stay open even after midnight;

4. Youngsters and adults both local and foreign freely consume alcohol in public;

5. Empty liquor bottles are thrown all over the place;

6. Fights and brawls are very common; and

7. Crime and vice activities can easily take place, and have taken place as reported in the newspapers.

So what would be a comprehensive solution for this?

The best people to answer this are the authorities themselves.

As a common person, I would be truly happy if the problem of alcohol abuse can be contained.

SANTHI SHANMUGAM Kuala Lumpur