KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has issued a strong reminder to Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing and his ministry regarding the serving of alcohol at a dinner event organised by Tourism Malaysia.
Anwar affirmed the government’s firm stance against the inclusion of alcoholic beverages at official functions. Despite the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (Motac) explaining that alcohol was served after the official proceedings concluded, Anwar pointed out that it was still at the same venue and event.
“We have given a stern warning to the minister and his ministry not to repeat this mistake. Although the explanation was that the programme had ended, it was still inappropriate,” Anwar told the media today.
“As for the government, I will remind the Cabinet and the entire government apparatus to be vigilant on this issue and not to be careless,” he added.
Recently, Masjid Tanah Member of Parliament Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin revealed that alcohol was served during the dinner at the Global Travel Meet event, prompting Muslim guests to leave early.
However, Tiong denied Mas Ermieyati’s claims, stating that the event was an initiative of the industry and private sector, while Tourism Malaysia merely organised the two-and-a-half-day Global Travel Meet.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi commented that the matter would be discussed at a Cabinet meeting to establish UMNO’s official position on the issue.
Zahid emphasised that UMNO strongly opposes the serving of alcohol at Tourism Malaysia’s dinner, labelling it inappropriate and contrary to Malaysia’s status as a Muslim-majority country.
“While the government respects the religions and cultures of its diverse communities, official government events must take into account the sensitivities of Muslims, in line with Islam being the religion of the Federation,” he concluded. – October 7, 2025