This is one of the moves that we have taken as a new government, to update the regulations to suit the real demand from the public.

Outdoor dining is very popular in Malaysia, from the mamaks to kopitiams to even higher end outlets such as Papparich.

With this policy, which was approved by MPSJ some months ago, and endorsed by the State Government recently, we can legalize all the outlets who want to put tables outdoors.

Of course, MPSJ will evaluate suitability before approval.

This will help operators operate legally, and also cut down instances and allegations of corruption by our officers.

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MPSJ legalises sidewalk dining
Writer: Gan Pei Ling (Selangor Times)
Published: Fri, 23 Dec 2011


SUBANG JAYA: A move to legalise and regulate outdoor dinning at eateries in the municipality is winning is being applauded by restaurant owners.

Subang Jaya Coffeeshop, Bar and Restaurant Association committee member Danny Lim welcomed the decision by the Subang Jaya Municipal Council (MPSJ).

“This will benefit around 6,000 to 8,000 eateries in the municipality,” said Lim.

Under the new policy, owners can legally apply to MPSJ to place tables and chairs on five-foot ways outside their restaurants during their operating hours.

Despite being unlawful, dinning along sidewalks is a common practice not only in Subang Jaya but throughout the country.

“Now we can apply for the permit instead of paying summonses every month,” said Lim.

He added that it would also help to reduce corruption, as some restaurant operators would rather bribe enforcement officers than pay the summons that could accumulate to thousands of ringgits a year.

MPSJ councillor Pooi Weng Keong and Subang Jaya assemblyperson Hannah Yeoh announced the new policy at a press conference last Friday.

“Previously, the operators were only allowed to place tables and chairs on five-foot ways from 6pm to midnight. They have to remove them after midnight and during daytimes.

“But after a dialogue with the operators in February 2011, taking into account their feedback, MPSJ decided it is more appropriate to base the permit on their respective operating hours,” said Pooi.

However, he noted that food outlets cannot take up all the space on five-foot ways, and must still leave a walkway for pedestrians. Otherwise, their permit could be revoked.

The new policy will affect eateries in Subang Jaya, Bandar Sunway, Puchong, Seri Serdang and Seri Kembangan.

Pooi said restaurant operators, including those that open round-the-clock, can start applying for the new permit with immediate effect.

“The fee is RM30 per table per month,” said Pooi, adding that operators must secure the new permit by March 2012.