Ban 24-hour eateries, says CAP

HEALTH CONCERNS: They are the cause of rising cases of diabetes and obesity

GEORGE TOWN: THE authorities should not allow eateries to operate round-the-clock.

Consumers Association of Penang president S.M. Mohamed Idris said the move was necessary to check the rising cases of diabetes and obesity.

"With food, especially with high fat, salt and sugar content, available round-the-clock, many people tend to overeat for supper.

"This has led to a rising number of overweight people and diabetics," he said yesterday.

Idris said the authorities should limit operating hours of eateries to 9pm daily.

Food high in fat and salt content as well as soft drinks and other beverages which have high sugar content should be slapped with taxes.

He said the government should take a leaf from Mexico where a 50 per cent tax was imposed on all carbonated drinks.

He said the authorities should also disallow vending machines selling soft drinks, sweets and junk food in schools and hospitals.

"Obesity among Malaysian children is worrying as overweight kids are a common sight (these days)."

He said data from research groups indicated that about 15 per cent of toddlers and preschool children were overweight or obese.

"Thirty per cent of primary schoolchildren are obese."

Idris said diabetes among children was often overlooked or misdiagnosed.

"It can strike children of any age, including toddlers and babies. If it is not detected early, it can be fatal or can cause brain damage."

The suggestion, however, was met with derision from 24-hour eatery owners.

Abdul Aziz Shik Ahmad, who owns a nasi kandar restaurant, said it was a person's right to eat at whatever time.

"Not everyone works from 9am to 5pm.

"Some people only get to have their meals late at night. We are merely food providers.

"Contrary to popular belief, nasi kandar dishes are not sold late at night.

"Most people only have toasts and drinks at that time."

Read more: Ban 24-hour eateries, says CAP - General - New Straits