Exercise empathy and discretion, refrain from acts of provocation, enforcement officers told

 

MCA Youth has called for enforcement officers to act with empathy when dealing with micro traders to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts from arising.

Its national youth deputy chairman Mike Chong was referring to several viral videos that went viral recently that saw two Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) enforcement officers being involved in altercations with individuals believed to be illegal traders during assignments to monitor the Ramadan and Aifilfitri bazaars.

“The public certainly recognises that enforcement officers need to undertake many roles to ensure that society adheres to laws and government policies. Nevertheless, empathy and wisdom must also be present in every individual,” he stressed.

“If these micro traders do not have the necessary licences or valid documents to operate their businesses, it would not be unreasonable for the authorities to issue a warning first and then assist them to apply for a business licence.

“We do not know what these traders are going through. Perhaps they are also ‘struggling’ to support their families.

“If the authorities are too harsh with them, confiscating all their goods and preventing them from doing business, it will only multiply the burdens they are already shouldering.”

Chong went on to suggest that a data centre be established to focus on information about local micro traders.

“For example, in Kuala Lumpur, based on zones, how many micro traders still lack a licence? What are their constraints and problems? What channels are available for them not only to express their grievances but also to solve their problems?” he continued.

“Ideally, the bureaucratic red tape that complicates matters should be removed, and the processes for micro traders should be made easier.”

The MCA Youth Wilayah Persekutuan chairman said simultaneously, enforcement officers must also show effort in combating business activities conducted by foreign nationals to prevent double standards between Malaysian citizens and non-citizens, especially those by illegal immigrants.

“Each time there is a conflict between enforcement officers and traders, netizens often make comparisons between the enforcement actions taken against citizens and non-citizens,” he stated.

“Foreign nationals are seen to be too free to run businesses, to the point where they can even open their own convenience stores.”

According to Chong, MCA supports any policies related to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) because they contribute significantly towards generating job opportunities whilst reducing unemployment.

“They perform a vital role as the backbone of the nation’s economy. At the same time, traders must always adhere to the regulations set and prioritise safety, hygiene and cleanliness, especially when it involves the sale of food and beverages,” he added. –  Focus Malaysia