24 Hours stores/ shops closed?? No..no..no..

Woke up this morning and was listening to the radio and was alarmed to hear the headlines in the News Straits Times that said that 24 hours stores and shops to be closed.
Their argument being that it will save electricity and will reduce the 'lepak' culture . Wow, dont you think that is a little over the top?

According to the Wikipedia, " Mamak stalls tend to be popular among Malaysian youths as hang out spots, due to cheap food and beverages being served as well as being open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The mamak stall has been etched permanently into Malaysian culture, much in part because of its ubiquitous nature. The mamak stall is very much a melting pot of cultures, a symbol of multiracial harmony. People of all races, religions and ages frequent mamak stalls to gossip or catch a late-night football game while enjoying a cup of hot teh tarik or Milo Ais. No other eatery has quite as much cultural significance in Malaysia, save for the kopi tiam."

The Mamak is deffinately no where close to al fresco dining as it is a sidewalk hangout spot, the mamak stall has become a permanent fixture in many parts of Malaysia, especially within the state of Selangor, particularly in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya. It is eminently popular among teenagers and young adults who look at these stalls as a clean (up to one's discretion) and safe place to gather with friends to while the night away. One can call it an option to clubs and bars, or rather the only option after the clubs and bars are closed. On the other hand, we are certain that it has brought about a new city trend, a uniquely Malaysian culture, one that demonstrates the fact that cities like Kuala Lumpur, never really go to sleep.

The 24 hours convenient stores are there for a reason. Many of these stores are fully equipped with almost all the necessary product ranging from electronics, Engine Oils, car accessories, daily products such as soap, facial wash, sanitary and so on, food, junk food, drinks, emergency/ medical products ranging from plaster, panadols, antiseptics and so on! These days, petrol station stores also have a mini dining area with hot foods, just to name a few are fresh DIY hot dogs, instant noodles corner, pastries, and more. The reason, these stores are open are to ensure that people's needs are being met and that in case of an emergency that are places one can go to, to seek help or grab a quick bite when one is hungry.

These stores also cater to people that are driving long distance or traveling on the road at late hours at night or wee in the morning. These places allow one to rest and relax while on a long journey. Not only catering for people that are on the road at odd times but also cater to the people that work on a 24 hour shift.

Here is a scenario to ponder upon, "One finishes work at 3 am, and wants to grab a bite as he/ she is hungry. But with all the shops closed at this hour one has no other choice but to head back home immediately with a hungry stomach. On top of that, one needs to go to bed with an empty stomach which in the long run may cause gastritis."

Therefore, I think these store/ stalls should be left alone and not be closed down. Shutting them down only means, removing a distinctive Malaysian Culture. Who are we with no culture??


Cheers...