Non-Muslim M’sians Cancel Their Wedding Banquets in Kelantan After State Bans Serving of Alcohol in Hotels

Some weddings scheduled for next year in a Kelantan hotel have been cancelled after the notice of the alcohol ban at the premises.

According to China Press, a hotel operator confirmed that he had received the notice from the Religious Department of Kelantan (JAHEIK) about the alcohol ban two weeks ago and immediately contacted the non-Muslim customers who had upcoming reservations to explain the situation.

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Some customers also called in to enquire about the situation, and some opted to cancel the wedding banquet scheduled for next year.

Others understood the hotel’s situation and retained their reservations.

“As for customers who have already booked for reunion dinner on Chinese New Year’s Eve, the hotel has not received any cancellation notice yet.”

Despite maintaining some of the reservations, the hotel operator admitted that the business is affected to some extent.

“A customer has booked three tables for a dinner party, and they are still considering it after the alcohol ban notice. They have not responded to us,” the hotel operator said.

On the other hand, the president of the Kelantan Chinese Chamber of Commerce (KCL) said he had contacted the Kota Bharu City Council (MBKB) to get a clarification on the matter. However, since the chairman of MBKB had just stepped down, KCL would have to wait for the new chairman of MBKB to take over before the former could get clarification on the matter.

“It’s not something new”

In another report by Guan Ming Daily, a Kota Bahru City Councilor pointed out that the alcohol ban is not something new and has been around for a while. This time, however, the enforcement is stricter due to the Federal government’s requirement for Halal certifications.

In the Halal certification withdrawal notice above, clause 32(3)(a)(ii) MPPHM 2020 states that no alcohol or food that is mixed with alcohol is allowed.

Regardless, the Kelantan Chinese Assembly Hall stated that they will meet with the state government soon to discuss a solution.

Also read: Kelantan Govt Reportedly Bans Hotels from Serving Alcohol in the State, Even for Non-Muslim Weddings