By Social Activist Remy Majangkim
KOTA KINABALU: Recent reports indicate a troubling trend in Penampang, where it is increasingly perceived as a hotspot for various criminal activities, notably drug trafficking, illegal transportation networks, and unregulated gambling operations.
Furthermore, the roads stretching from Hotel No. 5 to ITCC have effectively transformed into an informal racetrack for motorcycles and cars.
It is not unusual to witness vehicles operating at speeds above 120 to 140 km/h, audibly disrupting the night with their modified exhaust systems.
The situation escalates every weekend, resulting in significant noise pollution and public disturbances, such as raucous disputes occurring as late as 2 AM or even 4 AM.
This chronic disruption imposes substantial challenges on residents, particularly affecting families with children who struggle to maintain healthy sleep patterns. As a resident adjacent to several nightlife venues, I experience these disturbances firsthand.
Despite numerous formal complaints and calls to law enforcement for intervention, the issues persist.
There have even been dismissive remarks suggesting that we, the concerned residents, are merely out of touch, labelled as “old and grumpy” for objecting to the behaviour of the youth.
However, this raises critical questions about societal balance and the limits of tolerance in public spaces, emphasising the need for a more robust regulatory framework.
The areas in question are governed by the Penampang District Council, which functions as a regulatory body within the local council.
They also fall under the jurisdictions of DUN Moyog, DUN Kepayan, and DUN Luyang, represented by their respective representatives. So, what can we do to address this initial challenge? We need to take bold steps.
The Penampang Municipal Council possesses a unique local authority through the Penampang District Council (Pub and Bar Lounge Premises By-Law 1987).
This by-law empowers the council to issue licences, set regulations, and make arrests.
How are we going to move forward? I suggest implementing a Penampang-wide ban on bars and pubs operating beyond their licensed hours.
This practice has been implemented in other countries, where establishments are required to close exactly at midnight without exceptions. Police, council members, and plainclothes officers will be present to ensure compliance with this rule.
Implementing various measures could potentially reduce the crime rate in Penampang by up to 50% or more. Weekend roadblocks could deter drunk drivers, particularly on the two main roads: Penampang-Lido and ITCC.
This initiative will allow affected families to enjoy quality rest after a long workday, preparing them for the challenges of the next day. These initiatives are feasible and require cooperation from all relevant parties for the sake of safety and effective enforcement.
Selamat Hari Raya, and be safe on the road.
