THE Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) wants the Kedah government to allow entertainment outlets to open from Thursday to Friday, a move it said will help to revive the tourism industry.

MAH Kedah and Perlis chapter chairman Eugene Dass said the industry is in need of a lift after being ravaged by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We hope the local authorities will revise this regulation.The last thing we need is for this clause to hinder us,” he said.

The Kedah government on October 30 reminded entertainment outlet operators that they are not allowed to open from Thursday 6pm to Friday 2.30pm unless they have written permission from the state authorities.

Entertainment outlets are only allowed to operate from 7pm to 1am on weekdays and up to 2am on Saturday.

Dass called for a more business-friendly environment.

“International tourists have not been coming. Even the ferries are facing issues,” he said.

He noted the ban was introduced by the Kedah Barisan Nasional government back in 1997 to mark the eve of holy Friday (Malam Jumaat).

He also said that the hotel industry is facing challenges as the occupancy rate remains low.

“The hotel industry in Langkawi is struggling. It was not what it used to be.

“Currently, the occupancy rate is hovering at 50-55% in Pantai Cenang and 30-40% in Kuah town. We used to do up to 80%.”

He said the association is planning to seek the help of newly elected Langkawi MP Mohd Suhaimi Abdullah, of Perikatan Nasional, in the coming week.

“We hope to discuss this issue and other matters related to tourism in Langkawi.”

The Kedah and Perlis chapter of the association has 52 member hotels, 37 of which are on the island. – November 28, 2022.