“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.”
– Virginia Woolf.
The Consumer Association of Penang (CAP) recently urged the government to revoke licenses for 24-hour eateries to address the negative effects associated with late-night dining.
CAP’s president, Mohideen Abdul Kader, highlighted studies indicating that late-night meals contribute to weight gain, sleep disturbances, and digestive issues.
For years, CAP has been advocating for government intervention to limit the operating hours of eateries, arguing that reducing access to late-night dining would encourage healthier habits among Malaysians.
This is particularly important considering that Malaysia has the highest obesity rate among adults in Southeast Asia, with 50.1% of the adult population reported as overweight (30.4%) or obese (19.7%) in the 2019 National Health and Morbidity Survey.
Obesity significantly increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes, with a seven-fold increase in men and a twelve-fold increase in women compared to individuals with normal weight. A local study revealed that 30% of type 2 diabetes patients in Malaysia were clinically obese.
Additionally, obesity is a risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Malaysia spends approximately RM 9.65 billion annually to address NCDs in the country.
Mohideen further argued that while reducing operating hours for eateries wouldn’t completely solve Malaysia’s obesity issue it would help decrease late-night eating habits and promote better eating and sleeping patterns.
Research indicates that individuals who eat late at night consume over 40% of their daily energy requirements, posing a significant risk factor for obesity.
Unhealthy eating habits combined with imbalanced nutrition—typical of Malaysian food, which is high in fat and salt content—during post-dinner snacks, have also been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
According to a recent study published in the British medical journal, The Lancet, Malaysia is the most obese country in Asia, with 15.6% of the population classified as obese. The study suggests that obesity rates have been rising in the continent over the past few years.
The widespread availability of food and drinks 24/7 has significant implications for oral health. Easy access to sugary snacks and drinks at any time poses an ongoing threat to dental enamel, greatly increasing the risk of cavities and infections.
While I acknowledge the potential health risks associated with late-night meals, it’s crucial to consider the broader context and potential implications of restricting operating hours for eateries.
However, I don’t fully agree with CAP’s proposal for several reasons. It’s important to recognize that late-night dining establishments often cater to individuals with non-traditional schedules, such as shift workers, students studying late, or travellers experiencing jet lag. These groups rely on access to food during late hours to meet their dietary needs or address hunger.
We must consider the needs and preferences of all consumers, not just those directly affected by obesity concerns.
Moreover, imposing limitations on operating hours could have unintended consequences, such as exacerbating food insecurity for vulnerable populations who depend on late-night eateries for affordable meals.
Many low-income individuals or those without access to kitchen facilities rely on 24-hour food outlets as their primary source of sustenance, particularly in urban areas where food deserts are common.
Additionally, we must consider the economic impact of such a policy change. For many small businesses, especially family-owned eateries or local diners, operating 24 hours is essential for generating revenue and providing employment opportunities.
Restricting operating hours could result in job losses and financial hardship for business owners and employees, particularly in communities with limited late-night dining options.
Therefore, while obesity is undoubtedly a significant public health concern, advocating for the abolition of 24-hour operating licenses for food outlets may not be the most effective solution.
Instead of eliminating 24-hour operating licenses, a more nuanced approach could involve promoting healthier menu options at all hours, implementing nutrition education programs to raise awareness of balanced eating habits, and supporting initiatives that enhance access to affordable and nutritious food for all Malaysians.
By addressing the underlying causes of unhealthy eating behaviours and implementing comprehensive solutions, we can work towards building a healthier society without unnecessarily restricting consumer choice or adversely affecting local businesses.
In conclusion, while the intent behind the call to abolish 24-hour operating licenses for food outlets is understandable, it’s important to consider the broader implications and explore more comprehensive strategies for tackling the complex issue of obesity.
A balanced approach that respects consumer choice supports businesses, and addresses root causes is essential for meaningful progress in promoting public health and well-being.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the New Sarawak Tribune.
