GEORGE TOWN: Please don't impose any further restrictions on traders selling liquor nationwide, pleads trade association.

       The North Malaya Liquor Traders' Association president Kelvin Lim said the recent restriction on Chinese medical halls and sundry shops in Kuala Lumpur was worrying as the restrictions could eventually be enforced in other states.

       "As of Nov 1 this year, Chinese medical halls and sundry shops in Kuala Lumpur have been restricted from selling hard liquor.

       "One state might lead to other states enforcing it in the future.

       "This will affect the traders, who are just trying to run their businesses with valid licences," he said during a press conference held at the association's office along Jelutong in George Town, Penang on Tuesday (Dec 14).

       Lim said he hoped there could be an understanding and harmony amongst all as Prime Minister Datuk Sri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has urged.

       "I support his (Ismail Sabri) appeal that we belong to one family and there should be tolerance and respect for one another.

       "We are running legal businesses and paying our taxes," he said.

       The association here has 170 members.

       Sundry shops, convenience stores and Chinese medical halls in Kuala Lumpur are not permitted to sell hard liquor, under Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s (DBKL) latest rules.

       These shops, however, are allowed to sell beer from 7am to 9pm.

       The updated guidelines on liquor sales took effect on Nov 1.