GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has conducted checks at two kopitiams at Lebuh Carnavon here today following a viral posting.
The posting alleged that the kopitiam had a sign on its wall which read:
"Each table will be charged RM2 if no single drink is ordered."
The ministry's Penang director S. Jegan said checks showed both eateries were operating as usual.
He said checks under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 found that both kopitiams displayed the prices of food and drinks sold.
He said inside both kopitiams, there were food and drink stalls renting and doing business there.
"The kopitiam owners said the RM2 charges were no longer imposed and there were no longer notices put up. They took note of the matter after the viral posting.
"The owners explained that it happened because many tourists and customers came only to seek shelter before moving to their next destination.
"There were also local customers who spent a long time, resulting in no tables available for new customers," he added.
Jegan said no action was taken as both eateries abide by the regulations by putting up prices of items on sale.
Earlier today, the Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP) urged consumers to boycott coffeeshops which impose charges if diners do not order drinks.
CAP president Mohideen Abdul Kader said, in the first place, the coffeeshop owners have no right to put up such notices.
He said they should only put up notices on their menu and their prices.