SEREMBAN: The Negri Sembilan government has banned the consumption of alcoholic beverages along public beaches in Port Dickson.

However, Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun said there is no drinking ban in private areas or other establishments along those beaches.

He said his administration has also decided to prohibit the consumption of alcoholic drinks in public fields, children’s playgrounds and recreational parks.

“The state exco at its meeting decided to ban such activities in these four public areas due to the high number of complaints from the people.

“Those who flout the regulations will be liable to a compound of up to RM2,000,” he told reporters yesterday, adding that all local governments in the state have been told to enforce the ruling within their respective jurisdictions.

Aminuddin said the ban is necessary as those who consume alcoholic beverages often cause a nuisance, which then causes others to stay away from these areas.

He said some irresponsible people would also break the bottles and cause a mess in public places.

The authorities have also received reports of injuries sustained by members of the public due to broken glass and shards.

“There have also been reports of fights among those who consume alcohol in these places, and we want to put an end to this.

“All Malaysians should be allowed free access to these places at any time without having to worry about their safety or well-being,” he said.

He said the state’s bylaws do not specify that drinking alcohol in public places is an offence, and that policemen or local council officers who respond to public complaints can only advise those who do so to leave the place.

Malaysian Public Service Society president Andrew Raju said the ban is timely as drinkers tend to leave trash behind.

“I’ve also heard stories of intoxicated people who would go for a swim after a few beers,” he said, adding that the ban should cover more public places.

However, former Seri Tanjung assemblyman Datuk M. Ravi said there should not be a blanket ban since Port Dickson is a tourist destination.

A resident suggested that the ban be enforced only after a certain hour.