RESTLESS NIGHTS DUE TO PUBS, EATERIES
in Jalan Kim Bian Aik, off Jalan Anson, George Town, Penang, used to be a peaceful neighbourhood.
But things changed about a month ago when pubs and restaurants opened at a fivestorey commercial building adjacent to the neighbourhood.
Checks by Actionline found several air-conditioner compressors and huge kitchen exhausts at the back of the commercial building, which directly faces the back alleys of houses in Taman Nirwana.
The compressors are loud, while the kitchen exhausts pollute the air.
Residents said the equipment would run from the afternoon to late at night.
To compound matters, more and more restaurants are occupying the commercial building.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the neighbourhood was once a peaceful housing area, but that changed with the arrival of the pubs and restaurants.
“Since all the pubs and restaurants came along, we have been having restless nights.
“Most houses here have a bathroom at the back.
“Just imagine the sound we have to endure whenever we want to relieve ourselves.
“Many elderly people are living here, and they spend most of their time at home. Do they not deserve privacy and peaceful rest at home?” she asked.
Another resident, in her late 60s, said many people walked in the back alley at night.
“We used to enjoy the quiet, but that has not been the case since last month.
“I do not feel that the authorities have done enough to ensure our area is not affected by the restaurants.
“It used to be peaceful and clean.
“Now, it is noisy and dirty. We do not feel safe with the presence of strangers in our back alley.”
She said residents were not informed or asked for their consent before the pubs and restaurants were opened.
ACTIONLINE:
A spokesman for the Penang Island City Council said the council was aware of the situation as it had been reported on several times since Oct 22.
The spokesman said the restaurants adhered to requirements.
“However, the safety and health of residents are also our main concern. Hence, we will look into it.
“We are investigating the reports and finding a solution to grouses raised by the affected parties.”