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

The public is being advised to respect the Federal Constitution, comply with Islamic law and take care of the sensitivities of Muslims in order to preserve harmony and national unity.

This follows backlash over alcoholic beverages being served at an event allegedly organised by a government agency.

Religious Affairs Minister says the serving of alcohol at government events can tarnish the country’s image

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, took to his Facebook page to share that the act of serving alcoholic beverages at official government functions can affect the country’s image and cause public outrage.

“The act of serving or displaying alcohol-based beverages at official government functions is against Islamic law, morality and the laws of the country. Islam not only prohibits the consumption of alcohol, but also all forms of cooperation and involvement with it,”

“In the context of Malaysia as an Islamic country and the World Halal Hub, such actions only tarnish the country’s image and cause public outrage. Therefore, all parties are advised to respect the Federal Constitution, comply with Islamic law and maintain the sensitivity of Muslims in order to preserve harmony and national unity,” he wrote.

A recent event featuring the Visit Malaysia 2026 banner served alcohol to its guests

According to a report by Sinar Harian, Masjid Tanah Member of Parliament, Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin, claimed that alcoholic beverages were served at the Global Travel Meet 2025 (GTM 2025) dinner that was held recently, causing Muslim guests to leave the program early.

Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, in response, explained that the event was an initiative from industry players and the private sector.

Federal Territories Mufti, Ahmad Fauwaz Fadzil, on the other hand, said that the provision of alcoholic beverages at official government functions goes against the spirit of the Constitution and offends the sensitivities of the Muslim community.

“First, any program or event organised by a government agency or symbolising the national identity must serve food and beverages that have been certified Halal by the authorities, including the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM).”

“Secondly, the organisation of an event that serves alcoholic beverages cannot involve any logo, symbol or label that symbolises the government or the country. Thirdly, the organisation of such an event must take place in a closed environment and cannot be broadcast to the public to preserve the religious sensitivities and social norms of the majority,” he said.

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