John Jeong Choon-Sik, president of the White House Nightclub in Martintar, Nadi, recently expressed his views on the misconceptions surrounding nightclubs and their influence on youth during a community meeting with the Nadi Police at the Nadi Town Council Chamber. He emphasized that nightclubs are designed for mature adults, refuting the idea that they should be venues for children.

Mr. Choon-Sik highlighted that the concerns about the negative impact of nightclubs often overlook the root cause, which he believes lies in the behavior of family members at home. He pointed out that many adults engage in drinking, smoking, and using inappropriate language, and these actions can significantly influence children, who may mimic what they see. “The responsibility lies with parents and relatives,” he asserted, indicating that family dynamics are central to guiding young behaviors.

In his remarks, Choon-Sik underscored the importance of a collaborative effort among families, churches, and educational institutions in providing appropriate guidance for the youth. With alarming statistics from Saint Giles Hospital reporting over 7,000 young individuals in their care this year, he emphasized the urgent need for supportive community structures to foster healthier environments for children and adolescents.

Acknowledging the economic role of nightclubs, Choon-Sik argued against their closure, suggesting that it would be detrimental to the economy to penalize an entire industry based on the actions of a few individuals. He also commended the ongoing, round-the-clock operations of the police, as highlighted by Acting Deputy Police Commander West, Esira Bari, stressing the vital role security plays in community safety.

This discussion not only reframes the narrative surrounding nightlife but also advocates for a shared responsibility among adults in nurturing positive growth in children. By focusing on collective efforts to support youth, there is hope for creating a healthier and more positive developmental landscape, recognizing the cultural and economic importance of nightlife venues.