MOH: Age Limit for Buying Alcohol in Malaysia Increased From 18 to 21 Years Old

If you thought that you could have your first drink once you’re past your 18th birthday then we’re sorry to inform you that you still have a few more years to wait. Starting from today (October 16), the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Malaysia has stated that you will have to be over 21 years old if you want to purchase alcoholic drinks. 

Source: gnavi

This is a recent statement released by MOH where they said that there were some recent changes to Malaysia’s Food Regulations 1985 and hence, the age limit for purchasing alcoholic drinks will be increased, The Star reported. Alcohol drinks sellers would also need to display cautionary warnings saying, “Drinking Alcohol Can Endanger Health”/Meminum arak boleh membahayakan kesihatan” at stores where they sold these beverages.

That’s not all, these sellers will need to affix these warning labels on all types of alcoholic drinks as well as display the age limit sign prohibiting those under 21 from buying any alcohol. All alcoholic beverages for sale will also have to be placed in different cabinets or racks away from the other items on sale.

Source: 4 travel

MOH said that these rules were in line with the amended Regulation 361 and new Regulation 386A concerning compounded hard liquor (CHL). CHL is defined as a mix of two or more types of spirits like whiskey, rum, vodka and brandy with the new standard stating that these drinks will only be allowed to be sold in glass bottles with a minimum volume of 700ml. This standard was introduced as a means to ensure the product’s safety and quality, as well as to provide correct information to consumers.

Source: wikipedia

The minimum age limit was previously 18 years old and if these terms and conditions sound familiar, it’s because there was a new law passed in 2016 that had similar stipulations. However, this was halted indefinitely in January 2018, according to a report from The Star but it looks like it will be going on for sure this time. There will be an 18-month period for sellers to comply with these new regulations as well.

If you’re thinking of breaking the law, then do note that those found guilty can be slapped with a maximum fine of RM10,000 or get jailed not more than two years. So, don’t even think about it!

Also read: M’sian Man Beats Friend to Death For Rejecting a Drinking Session with Him