Coffee shops confirm new beer licensing for January 1

[superadmin]

KUALA LUMPUR – Coffee shops selling beers were only notified of a new policy requiring them to apply for a new licence three weeks ago, just a month and a half before the ruling is supposed to come into force on January 1. 

In confirming the policy imposed by the federal government, Petaling Jaya Coffeeshop Association president Keu Kok Meng said businesses have been taken aback by the sudden imposition of the licensing requirement.

Speaking to The Vibes, Keu said his association was called in for a briefing by the Customs Department last month to inform them of the decision.

“It will be enforced nationwide. Of that I’m certain, according to the briefing session. It is understood that enforcement comes under the Excise Regulations 1977. The legislation has been there, but they are only enforcing it now.

“Apparently, the Finance Ministry informed the Customs Department about the decision in March, but we are only being briefed now.

“Definitely, we feel a bit shortchanged by the short notice. So, we will certainly appeal the decision. In fact, we have written to the ministry, seeking for reconsideration.”

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