GEORGE TOWN, May 7 – The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) applauds Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly’s commitment to carefully consider their proposal to abolish 24-hour licenses for eateries and restaurants. While recognizing the importance of consulting stakeholders, CAP emphasizes the paramount need to protect public health in making such decisions. Numerous studies have linked late-night eating to adverse health effects, including disrupted circadian rhythms, increased obesity risk, and heightened susceptibility to chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer.
Recent research from Harvard Medical School underscores the significant impact of meal timing on various physiological processes, shedding light on why late-night eating poses such risks. Given Malaysia’s burgeoning obesity rates and the looming threat of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), CAP stresses the urgency of regulating late-night eating establishments. While acknowledging the employment opportunities provided by 24-hour food outlets, CAP contends that prioritizing public health over economic concerns is essential for fostering a healthier and more prosperous society.
