LANGKAWI – An acute shortage of beer and tobacco has hit the tourist hotspot here as it prepares to receive more visitors with the further lifting of restrictions expected by September 1.
It is learnt that the shortage is due to the prolonged movement control order, which crippled the supply of many goods, including duty-free items.
The reduced orders for such items because of a lack of demand owing to the near-total shutdown of the tourism industry compounded the problem.
Wholesalers and distributors of duty-free items on the island told The Vibes that tourists may end up getting the short end of the stick during their vacation, as the shortage may continue for some time.
However, they assured that efforts are being made to ensure “satisfactory” supplies.
“I was told that the shortage of beer across the island, as well as the mainland, is because the breweries are not operating as they are deemed non-essential,” said a wholesaler.
“So, there is a widespread shortage of such beverages not only in Langkawi, but the entire country.
“But the fact that Langkawi is a duty-free island is what drives many to visit it.”
Langkawi Business Association deputy president Datuk Alexander Issac said the shortage of beer and tobacco is expected to be a short-term setback.
Eatery operators said they are unlikely to see a quick rebound in business.
Oli Khalid, co-proprietor of the Red Tomato bistro, said many outlets will have to start rehiring the workers they were forced to retrench because of the tourism shutdown.
“The industry won’t bounce back immediately as only tourists who have been fully vaccinated are expected to come back for now.
“So, the full reinstatement of workers cannot be done immediately. As such, the business community here will practise extreme caution when reopening.” – The Vibes, August 27, 2021
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