DBKL crackdown causes Chinese restaurants' costs to rise - group

The Malaysia Chinese Restaurant Association (MCRA) claimed that businesses are facing escalating operational costs due to Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s (DBKL) crackdown on signages.

“The cost pressure brought by the signage enforcement actions cannot be ignored. From the design and production to the installation of new signage, every step imposes financial burdens on businesses, particularly amid rising ingredient and labour costs.

“Signage is not just a store identifier but also a window into corporate culture,” association president Gao Haoyun said in a statement yesterday.

Last week China Press reported that DBKL had launched a large-scale operation targeting signages not displaying Malay language across various areas, including Segambut, Pudu, and Jalan Silang in the city centre.

While details are scarce, comments from politicians indicate that Chinese businesses with signs that did not comply with City Hall’s Malay language requirements were among those affected.

However, DBKL advisory board member Andre Lai said the operation targeted all illegal signage, not just those with the Chinese language.

Selective targeting

Last month, DBKL was accused of selectively targeting Chinese businesses in a similar operation.

Gao pleaded with City Hall to take into account the economic and cultural contributions brought on by the Chinese food and beverage industry.

“The sector provides over 100,000 jobs, making it a key driver of economic growth and a model industry, significantly boosting cultural exchange and economic cooperation between Malaysia and China.

“Notably, 85 percent of Chinese food and beverage businesses operate through Malaysia-China partnerships, integrating into the local business ecosystem while showcasing multiculturalism,” he said.

He added that DBKL needed to strike a balance between its enforcement and supporting industry growth that benefits businesses and consumers from both Malaysia and China.

He said the MCRA will also engage with City Hall to find an amicable solution.

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