Petaling Jaya’s nightlife scene is set for a boost as the city council approves extended hours for entertainment outlets, promising a regulatory update that balances economic activity with urban governance.

Petaling Jaya’s entertainment scene is on the cusp of at least a minor transformation. The Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) has approved the extension of operating hours for licensed entertainment outlets until 3am. The move, set to be formalized in the coming weeks, aims to revitalize the city’s after-hours economy while ensuring business operations remain aligned with updated licensing frameworks.

The decision follows a series of internal meetings and consultations with city councillors, department heads and key players in the local hospitality, food and beverage industries. PJ mayor Mohamad Zahri Samingon confirmed that the extension would come with a set of updated licensing regulations, part of a broader revamp of business policy in the city.

“This isn’t just about longer hours. It’s about smarter, better-regulated business practices,” said Mohamad Zahri during a press conference at MBPJ headquarters. “We’ve prepared 13 new licensing guidelines that will cover not only entertainment outlets but also other sectors such as pet shops, crematoriums, and a variety of service-based businesses.”

While the detailed contents of these new guidelines are still under review, the mayor assured they would be made public once finalized and officially endorsed by the council.

The move follows increasing interest from stakeholders in Petaling Jaya’s growing tourism and lifestyle sectors. Last November, Mohamad Zahri had floated the idea of extending entertainment operating hours, citing strong interest voiced during a tourism workshop. A subsequent follow-up workshop earlier this year further explored the implications, particularly concerning zoning and the impact of extended business hours on surrounding neighbourhoods.

Currently, there are 338 licensed entertainment outlets in the city. These range from karaoke lounges and pubs to live music venues and nightclubs. Industry players have long lobbied for extended hours, arguing that the 1am cut-off previously enforced was stifling business potential and placing Petaling Jaya at a disadvantage compared to Kuala Lumpur or even nearby Subang Jaya, both of which offer more liberal operating windows.

From a business standpoint, the longer hours could be a boon. Extended trading time obviously means more customers, greater footfall, and more spending, especially in food and beverage outlets that operate in tandem with nightlife venues. For performers, DJs, service staff and suppliers, it may also translate into more work opportunities and a healthier local nightlife economy.

But longer hours come with concerns. Residents have previously raised issues about late-night noise, traffic, and security. MBPJ has not yet outlined whether the extended hours will come with additional enforcement or neighbourhood protection measures. However, it is expected that these will be addressed as part of the yet-to-be-released licensing framework.

The announcement was made alongside MBPJ’s confirmation that it will host and co-organise Placemaker Week Asean (PWA) 2025, an annual event focused on urban public spaces, community building and city liveability. Scheduled to take place from August 27 to 30 at the MBPJ Civic Hall, the event will provide an opportunity for city planners, government officials, architects and community leaders to exchange ideas on urban transformation — a fitting backdrop to the council’s push for more inclusive and vibrant city life.