John Jeong Choon-Sik, the president of the White House Nightclub in Martintar, Nadi, recently spoke at a community meeting with Nadi Police, asserting that nightclubs are venues meant for mature adults, not children. During the meeting, held at the Nadi Town Council Chamber, he addressed rising concerns about the perceived negative influence of nightlife on young people.

Choon-Sik argued that the true negative impacts on youth often stem from the behaviors observed within families rather than the nightclubs themselves. He emphasized that adults frequently engage in activities such as drinking and using inappropriate language, which children may mimic. “The responsibility for guiding young minds lies primarily with the parents and relatives,” he stated, highlighting the need for adults to set a positive example for the younger generation.

To foster a safer environment for youth, Mr. Choon-Sik called for collaboration among families, churches, and educational institutions. He cited alarming statistics from Saint Giles Hospital, reporting that over 7,000 young people were treated this year, which underscores the pressing need for a supportive community framework.

Furthermore, he defended the economic importance of nightclubs, suggesting that closing them due to the actions of a few individuals would be unwise. Choon-Sik praised the continuous law enforcement efforts, as highlighted by Acting Deputy Police Commander West, Esira Bari, emphasizing the crucial role of police in maintaining community safety.

This perspective opens a discussion on the shared responsibility among adults in shaping the behavior of youth. By promoting cooperation between families, local institutions, and law enforcement, there is hope for creating a nurturing environment that can lead to healthier development and positive influences for future generations. The potential for growth through community engagement reflects a hopeful outlook amidst concerns about youth and nightlife.