PM Anwar Issues Stern Warning To Tiong, MOTAC Over Alcohol Issue

SEPANG, Oct 7 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has issued a stern warning to Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing and his ministry (MOTAC) that the serving of alcohol at an official government event must never be repeated.

Anwar said the explanation provided by MOTAC, that alcohol was served only after the official programme had concluded, was unacceptable as the government holds a firm policy against serving alcohol at official functions, without exception.

“MOTAC explained that the alcohol was served after the official event ended. But it was still within the same venue and part of the same event.

“We have issued a stern warning to the Minister and the Ministry. This mistake must not be repeated. Regardless of the explanation that the programme had concluded, it is still entirely inappropriate,” he stressed.

Anwar said this to Bernama and RTM after seeing off visiting Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif at the Bunga Raya Complex here.

The Prime Minister went further, warning all government leaders and agencies not to take such matters lightly.

“I want to remind all members of the Cabinet and the entire government machinery that there is no room for negligence on this issue,” he said.

Anwar was responding to the controversy surrounding the serving of alcohol during a dinner event held in conjunction with the Global Travel Meet programme, an event attended by Tiong himself. 

Several photos from the evening, which have since gone viral, show the minister and guests holding glasses of wine and beer.

-- BERNAMA