John Jeong Choon-Sik, the president of the White House Nightclub in Martintar, Nadi, recently addressed the ongoing debate regarding the role of nightclubs in society during a community meeting with Nadi Police. He emphasized that nightclubs are intended for mature adults and not suitable venues for children, challenging common misconceptions that view these establishments as detrimental to youth.

Choon-Sik pointed out that the real negative influences on young individuals often stem from behaviors modeled by parents and family members rather than by nightlife venues. He noted that adults frequently engage in activities such as drinking and using inappropriate language, which children may imitate, shaping their perceptions and behavior. “The responsibility lies with parents and relatives,” he asserted, calling for a collective effort from families, churches, and educational institutions to offer proper guidance.

Highlighting serious concerns, he referenced alarming statistics from Saint Giles Hospital, which reported caring for over 7,000 young people this year, signaling a pressing need for a supportive community framework. Choon-Sik made a strong case for the economic importance of nightclubs, arguing that closing them due to the actions of a few individuals would be a misguided decision that could harm the country’s economy.

During the meeting, he also commended the police for their 24/7 operations, as noted by Acting Deputy Police Commander West, Esira Bari, underscoring the crucial role of law enforcement in ensuring community safety.

This perspective advocates for a shift in focus towards the shared responsibility of adults in shaping youth behavior. By fostering collaboration among families, local institutions, and law enforcement, there is hope for creating a more supportive and nurturing environment for young people. This united effort could lead to healthier development for the younger generation while recognizing the vital cultural and economic contributions of nightlife venues.