John Jeong Choon-Sik, the president of the White House Nightclub in Martintar, Nadi, recently made a statement regarding the role of nightclubs in society during a community meeting with the Nadi Police at the Nadi Town Council Chamber. He emphasized that nightclubs are venues designed for mature adults and should not be seen as appropriate places for children. This comment comes amidst growing concerns about the potential negative impact of nightlife on young people.

Choon-Sik pointed out that the true negative influences on children’s behavior often stem from their own families rather than nightlife establishments. He noted that many adults engage in activities such as drinking, smoking, and using inappropriate language, which can lead children to mimic these behaviors. “The responsibility lies with parents and relatives,” he asserted, underscoring the need for adults to model positive behaviors.

During the meeting, he stressed the importance of collaboration among families, churches, and educational institutions to provide better guidance to the youth. He referenced alarming statistics from Saint Giles Hospital, indicating that over 7,000 young people have been under their care this year, highlighting the urgent need for supportive community structures.

Choon-Sik also defended the economic contributions of nightclubs, arguing that it would be misguided to close them due to the actions of a minority. He praised the police’s 24/7 operational presence, which was acknowledged by Acting Deputy Police Commander West, Esira Bari, emphasizing the critical role of law enforcement in maintaining community security.

This perspective advocates a shift in focus towards the collective responsibility of adults in shaping children’s behaviors. By fostering collaboration among families and local institutions, there is hope for creating a supportive environment for young people. Recognizing the economic and cultural significance of nightlife venues can coexist with efforts to guide the younger generation towards positive behaviors.

In summary, Choon-Sik’s comments highlight the need for a shared responsibility among adults to foster a supportive and safe environment for youth while ensuring that nightlife venues continue to thrive as valuable parts of the community.