IT is not so much about the consumption of alcohol or engaging in gambling.

It is the question of choice that seems to be snatched away by overzealous authorities whether at the state or local government levels.

It is not that authorities have no role in the regulation of the sale and consumption of alcohol or having gambling outlets.

They only have role in the licensing and regulations of activities related to alcohol and gambling.

State or local authorities cannot ban the sale of alcohol or gambling outlets.

These have been existence in the country for a long time and they have been heavily regulated.

Flouting rules or regulations might mean the withdrawal of licences or the imposition of penalty, but not an outright ban.

People in this country have the right to choose, whether to consume alcohol or to gamble.

It is not for the government to stop these activities simply because they are deemed to be offensive to Muslims.

Generally speaking, Muslims in the country are tolerant of others.

They might think that alcohol and gambling are offensive and against the practice of their religion, but they also understand that non-Muslims might not have the same perspective on alcohol consumption or gambling. 

It is not that all non-Muslims have a natural affinity to alcohol or gambling.

A great many don’t consume alcohol or take part in gambling.

It not the situation of Muslims versus non-Muslims. Far from it.

Certain authorities seem to think that by banning alcohol and gambling, they are doing a great religious service for the Muslim community in the country.

The continued restrictions or ban on alcohol or gambling has nothing to do with the religion of Islam.

It is just that many rational or right-thinking Malay or Muslim individuals don’t come to the fore to criticise the actions of the authorities for banning alcohol or gambling.

It is just the fear that they will be labelled as anti-Islam or pro-non-Muslims.

The recent ban on the sale of alcohol in sundry shops, retail stores and Chinese medicine shops in Kuala Lumpur is an example of overzealousness on the part of the authorities.

Similarly, the move by the Kedah government to ban the 4D gambling outlets and alcohol in rural areas, is another example of overzealousness on the part of the state authorities.

These actions have nothing to with the requirements of Islam, but a blatant and irresponsible political move to project an image of compliance to Islam.

These actions are not coincidental. They are emanating at a time when Umno and Bersatu, with PAS, are locked in an electoral battle for the hearts and minds of the Malay-Muslims in the upcoming Malacca elections. – November 15, 2021.

* Prof P. Ramasamy is Penang’s deputy chief minister.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.