LOCAL authorities have the power to enforce the ban on the sale of alcoholic drinks to Muslims in the country, said Religious Affairs Minister Idris Ahmad.

Local authorities and council members can enforce the ban at their discretion, as they have the power to impose the rule among Muslims in their respective areas, he added.

“The Kuala Lumpur City Hall had previously imposed regulations to tighten the sale of liquor, especially to Muslims.

“It is up to local authorities and council members, and we hope this will kick-start a ban on the open sale of alcohol to Muslims.”

He was commenting on the statement issued by Selama assemblyman Mohd Akmal Kamarudin and the Selama District Council in Perak, which will not allow for the sale of liquor at retail outlets in the district from next year.

Akmal had reportedly said the matter has been decided by the local administrative body.

Idris said this can be seen in other states such as Kelantan and Terengganu, which have long enforced a ban on the sale of alcohol to Muslims.

On the name change of local whisky brand Timah, he said the jurisdiction rested with the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry to conduct monitoring. – Bernama, November 4, 2021.