FEDERAL Territories Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor today dismissed allegations that he said the Better Beer Festival 2017 planned for next month was cancelled because of political and religious factors.

Kuala Lumpur City Hall denied approval for the festival because of security reasons, he said, adding that holding such a festival went against KL City Hall bylaws.

The sale and consumption of alcoholic drinks in an open area was illegal and “in terms of security, the police said it is dangerous to have such a festival in an open space”.

“For me, my prime consideration is to ensure public safety. They can have their festival in a house, at a bar or at a hotel, but not an open space… they are not allowed to do so.

“Please do not spin this issue saying that I denied it (approval) because of political and religious pressure. No!” Tengku Adnan said after officiating the Mah Sing Group Bhd’s affordable residential units project in Kuala Lumpur.

Tengku Adnan also expressed disappointment over statements by the opposition on the issue.

He also denied having allowed such festivals to be held in an open area in the city in the past.

The Better Beer Festival, set to feature 250 different craft beers from 43 breweries worldwide, had been set for October 6 and 7 at the Publika Shopping Gallery in Kuala Lumpur.

Tengku Adnan said his ministry would convene a special meeting on Monday to discuss the issue of “hot areas” in Kuala Lumpur being used for illegal and immoral activities.

“Among the areas identified are Keramat, Kampung Baru, Cheras, Lembah Pantai and Seputeh. We will take action to ensure that these areas are free from illegal and immoral activities.” – Bernama, September 21, 2017.