ALOR STAR – Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor has clarified that there were no laws in place to prohibit the wearing of shorts or the consumption of alcohol in Langkawi.
His statement comes in response to recent claims made by Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing that such matters affected tourism.
Sanusi called upon Tiong to cease pursuing the issue, emphasising that such actions were detrimental to Langkawi's reputation as a premier tourist destination.
He also questioned Tiong’s source of information.
“I’m not sure who is giving such information to this minister. There are no prohibitions on wearing shorts and for tourists that enjoy alcohol, there are designated spots licensed for that.”
During a press conference after chairing the state executive council, Sanusi urged the tourism minister to visit Langkawi personally before making further statements.
He stressed that raising such issues does not serve the purpose of enhancing tourism and can have adverse effects on the industry.
Yesterday, an online news portal reported that Tiong cautioned Sanusi for repeatedly making statements that could negatively impact the tourism industry in Kedah.
During the press conference today, Sanusi underlined that tourists visiting Langkawi were free to enjoy their time on the island as long as they maintained modesty.
“Many people wear shorts in Langkawi. If their religion allows it, they can wear them. But going topless is not right. Being nude on the beach is also not acceptable in our culture.”
Sanusi had previously also invited Tiong to visit Langkawi after the matter came up during debate on the 12th Malaysia Plan mid-term review in Parliament recently. – The Vibes, September 28, 2023
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