MOTAC Says Alcohol Only Served After Dinner Concluded, PMX Issues Stern Warning Not to Repeat Mistake

Earlier, photos believed to be from Tourism Malaysia’s Global Travel Meet 2025 Gala Dinner sparked backlash after allegedly showing alcoholic drinks being served.

According to BERNAMA, Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing later clarified that alcohol was served only after the official programme had concluded, with photos of the tourism minister and guests holding glasses of wine and beer.

Tiong king sing

“This mistake cannot be repeated”

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has issued a stern warning to Tiong and his ministry, stressing that serving alcohol at official government events must never happen again.

Anwar said MOTAC’s explanation that alcohol was only served after the official programme had ended was unacceptable, as the government maintains a strict no-alcohol policy for all official functions.

“We’ve given a firm warning to the minister and the ministry. This mistake cannot be repeated. Even if the event had ended, it’s still completely inappropriate,” he said.

“There is no room for negligence on this issue”

Anwar went on to warn all government leaders and agencies not to take the matter lightly.

“MOTAC explained that the alcohol was served after the official event ended, but it was still within the same venue and part of the same programme,” he said.

He also reminded all Cabinet members and government departments that there is no room for carelessness on this issue.

Anwar ibrahim

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Also read: Religious Affairs Minister Says The Serving of Alcohol at Govt Events Can Tarnish Malaysia’s Image