Some of the nightspots along Chulia Street (file pics)
A group of local deejays in Georgetown are in a dilemma.
It is learnt that the Penang Island City Council has ruled that deejays are not allowed to perform at restaurants, bars, clubs and other outlets along Chulia Street due to the Heritage Zone status.
One of the deejays, DJ Jay or A. Jeyachilan who works at Chulia Court shared that council enforcement officers visited their outlet recently and warned them of the regulation.
“I have not heard of this regulation or is it something new. There are as many as 10 local deejays working in the Chulia Street entertainment area.
“We are all full-time deejays and this is our livelihood. This move has resulted in owners stopping us from working and bringing in foreign bands.
“How are we supposed to earn a living, it is not that we have other daytime jobs to support ourselves and our families”, he said.
According to their enforcement personnel, no operating license will be given to outlets having deejays. And, they also want this commitment to be written in black and white from the operators or owners of the premises or business.
The Chulia Street area is one of the popular entertainment hubs for locals and foreigners to chill out in the heart of Georgetown.
Jay also added that the entertainment industry also helps to contribute to the economy of the state and offers employment to many workers.
“Most of them work as chefs, cooks, waiters, waitresses, cleaning crew, outlet supervisors and managers too. I appeal to the local council to reconsider our fate as it involves our making a living”, he added.
Penang Hyperlocal has reached out to the Penang Island City Council for their comments and advice on this matter.