From Malaysiakini
Anwar denies moves to ban alcohol in S'gor
S Pathmawathy | Nov 26, 08 3:03pm
updated 5.45pm The opposition leader says the current policy remains in place and any changes will have to go through the state exco and the menteri besar, and not local councils.
From Malaysia Star, Malaysia
Parliament: Conflict brewing over alcohol ban proposal
Parliament: Conflict brewing over alcohol ban proposal
By LEE YUK PENG... Conflict apprears to be brewing within the Pakatan Rakyat coalition over a proposal by Selangor PAS to implement an alcohol ban in Selangor.It was reported in Sin Chew Daily on Wednesday that the Selangor PAS, after failing in its bid to initiate a liquor ban through the Selangor state exco, has directed PAS councillors to move a similar motion in 12 local councils.
A PAS councillor was reportedly going to move the motion in the Klang council meeting on Wednesday while PAS councillors in other district councils in Selangor would follow suit in future.
However, Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (PKR - Permatang Pauh) said otherwise.
“The current policy remains and does not change.We do not encourage Muslims and the young ones to drink. We are also not here to deny the rights of the non-Muslims,” he said to reporters at the Parliament lobby on Wednesday.
Anwar also said that he did not think such a ban could be decided in local councils.
“It is for the state government to decide. It can only take effect after the state exco makes its decision on the ban,” Anwar said.
Teresa Kok (DAP - Seputeh), who is also Selangor senior state exco member, said such a ban does not exist at the moment.
She also said it was weeks ago during the state exco meeting that the proposal was brought up mainly targeting the easy access of liquor.
“The teenagers can easily buy beer from convenience stores, mini markets and also supermarkets.
“There is no decision on the proposal yet,” she said, adding that dialogues with convenience stores, mini markets and supermarkets were being planned.
PAS deputy president Nasharuddin Mat Isa (PAS - Bachok) said he was not clear on the issue as the Selangor PAS did not communicate with the central leadership on the matter.
“Our stand on the issue is that there should be control on things that affect the morals and safety of the people,” he said.
Nasharuddin said control would only apply to Muslims.
