The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) has called for the Government to prohibit eateries in the country from operating 24 hours a day, claiming that “limited access to late-night eating will be healthier for Malaysians”.
In a statement, CAP asserted that the authorities should repeal the 24-hour operating licences given to eateries as studies have shown that there are negative effects of late-night meals such as weight gain, sleep disorders and digestive issues.
CAP wants the Government to repeal 24-hour operating licences for eateries
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The association elaborated that it supports the move taken by some eateries to shorten their operating hours and even though this was due to economic reasons, CAP stressed that shorter operating hours should be made mandatory for the sake of the health of all Malaysians.
The association asserted,
“For years CAP has been calling on the government to prohibit eateries from operating for 24 hours as limited access to late-night eating will be healthier for Malaysians.
“Presently Malaysians are in an unhealthy situation as we have the highest prevalence of obesity among adults in Southeast Asia.”
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CAP added that the widespread availability of food and drinks for 24 hours has significant implications on oral health and that easy access to sugary snacks and drinks delivered at any time poses an ongoing threat to dental enamel.
CAP wants the Government to raise taxes on all sweetened drinks and food too
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Hence, CAP wants the Government to make bold steps in withdrawing unhealthy foods and raising taxes on all types of sweetened drinks and food besides coming up with incentives and a long-term plan.
Moreover, the association wants the Government to be more serious in controlling the environment that encourages obesity by mandating that all food outlets be closed by midnight.
So, what do you guys think of CAP’s suggestion? Do you agree with the proposal?
Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
