KUALA LUMPUR – Local authorities (PBT) have been advised to maintain the current policy or status quo regarding the sale of alcoholic beverages in business premises within predominantly Muslim areas.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said that this decision aims to preserve harmony and relations among multi-ethnic communities and to avoid turning the matter into a political issue, Sinar Harian reported.
“In this matter, we want to maintain harmony for everyone. So for me, we will maintain the status quo at this time because there is no issue.
“Those who cannot drink, just don’t buy it, and we cannot forbid those who can drink because that is their right.
“Don’t forget that premises selling (alcoholic beverages) in any area all have licenses, and that business is not an unlawful one,” he was quoted as saying.
Nga attended to traders at Taman Canning Market, Ipoh, on Sunday. He mentioned this to reporters after officiating the Groundbreaking Ceremony for Pasir Pinji Market and visiting Taman Canning Market here on Sunday.
He added that if there were any applications from the local community for such a ban, the matter would need to be assessed and reviewed, considering everyone’s interests.
According to him, the unity of the people is currently on the right track, and everyone should focus on efforts to make Malaysia a respected nation on the world stage.
“That is why I always advise, let’s not lose focus with trivial issues that are not constructive.
“When we get involved in various polemic issues, it does not help anyone and only harms everyone,” he said.
The implementation of a policy to ban the sale of alcoholic beverages within predominantly Muslim areas, as proposed by the Ipoh City Council (MBI), has sparked debate among various parties, including several political leaders from both the government and the opposition.
Media reports indicate that meetings at the MBI level have approved a policy to study if there are demands from the majority Muslim residents before enforcing a ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages. – January 26, 2025