Pubdate: Fri, 04 Aug 2000
Source: Star (Malaysia)
Copyright: 2000 Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd.
Contact:  13 Jalan 13/6, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
Website: http://www.thestar.com.my
Author: Loong Meng Yee

PROPOSAL AGAINST DESIGNER PILLS

SEKINCHAN: The MCA will propose to the Government that two new
clauses--one deterring the sale of designer pills and the other
touching on strict closure time--be included as conditions in the
operating licences of entertainment outlets, said party president
Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik.

"MCA proposes that the authorities be empowered to withdraw the
operating licences if those running the entertainment outlets are
involved in the sale of designer pills, including Ecstasy, in their
outlets,'' he told reporters yesterday.

He added that the operating licences should be withdrawn if the
entertainment outlet operated beyond the hours permitted by the local
government.

Dr Ling said both conditions were part of MCA's all-out war against
the social menace of designer drugs and illegal horse-racing gambling
machines.

He added that the MCA had forwarded the proposals to Housing and Local
Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting, also the party's
vice-president.

"Ong will be responsible in formulating a working paper to be
presented to the Cabinet.

"He will also write to the state governments and the MCA excos for
support,'' said Dr Ling after chairing the Selangor MCA state liasion
committee meeting here.

Dr Ling stressed that the suggested conditions should not be
interpreted as discrimination against entertainment outlets.

"Entertainment outlets such as karaokes and pubs provide a place for
recreation both for locals and foreigners. We recognise the role
played by the outlets,'' he said.

However, Dr Ling said it was wrong if irresponsible owners started
abusing the law by selling drugs and flouting the permitted closing
times.

MCA, he added, was determined to play a role in wiping out social
menaces.

Dr Ling said he believed local governments would be acting fast in
organising a series of nationwide raids to close down illegal
entertainment outlets.
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake