The government has revoked the approval for Heineken Malaysia Bhd to continue operations during the movement control order (MCO), says Federal Territories Minister Annuar Musa.
“It has been cancelled this morning… because this was not in line with the policy of the government,” he said.
According to Malaysia Kini, the decision follows criticism from Umno, PAS and Bersatu leaders who disagreed with the permission granted saying that it is not an essential product.
“This is clearly not in line with the policies decided. Action needs to be taken immediately. Period,” Annuar said in a Tweet before Putrajaya revoked Heineken’s approval.
Heineken Malaysia Bhd was previously granted permission to operate during the movement control order (MCO) after it suspended operations on 24 March in accordance with the government’s orders.
The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry agreed that the alcoholic beverages producer was a food supply operator and can therefore operate during the MCO.
However, several PAS members disagreed with the decision saying that the Muslim community “will be offended”.
“If this is true, then I am confident that the Muslim community, in particular, will be offended and protest against this exception,” PAS central committee member Nasrudin Hassan said.
“Meanwhile, PAS which is now part of the government will definitely take the appropriate role so that the government will reconsider revoking the exception.”
“Alcohol is not a staple drink to the rakyat to the point that it can damage the country’s economy.”
PAS’ Pasir Mas MP Ahmad Fadhli Shaari has also urged the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry to explain the viral letter.
“If the letter is legitimate, I would like to urge the government, specifically the relevant ministry, to revoke the permission granted because clearly the alcohol industry is not a critical business or service,” he said.
“It is mandatory for a Muslim like myself and the Muslim community to stand up and voice our protest against this leniency and privilege given to the alcohol industry, let alone during the Covid-19 outbreak.”
“What value is left for a Muslim who prays to God while they allow alcohol to flow freely when they could stop it?”
What do you think of the back and forth decisions? Let us know in the comments below!
Also read: Heineken Malaysia Allowed to Operate During MCO, But PAS Urges Govt To Revoke Permission
