Nightclubs are the only type of businesses not allowed to reopen as they are still considered to be high-risk areas for Covid-19 transmission.

And prices might go up across the board when they do reopen, according to two business operators.

“Some materials are now double the cost, and event freelancers are hard to get because many have left the industry. Those remaining are either not experienced enough or are in high demand,” said Iqbal Ameer, whose company organises events and music festivals.

Iqbal hoped that the government would offer subsidies and incentives to help nightlife businesses to recover.

Daniela Horeanga, managing director of another event company, agreed that the public could face a sharp rise in prices when the industry is finally allowed to reopen.

It would depend on the SOPs to be implemented by the government.

“If a nightclub is only allowed to operate at 30% capacity, they may need to increase prices just to be able to cover their operating costs,” she said.

Both Iqbal and Horeanga hoped the government would provide more budget allocations to arts and culture, and revise laws and regulations on entertainment.

DJ Kuma, a pioneer underground disc jockey, said the government should allow bars and dance clubs a chance to reopen, as in other countries.

The trade group Industries Unite, a coalition of 120 SME associations, institutions and trade bodies, said last year that 150,000 to 250,000 jobs were at stake if nightlife remained out of bounds.