A DEBATE on the 2026 Supply Bill in the Dewan Rakyat briefly turned heated as MPs from the ruling and opposition blocs exchanged sharp words over alcohol consumption.
The row began when Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden (PN-Alor Setar) opened the debate, prompting Mohd Misbahul Munir Masduki (PN-Parit Buntar) to intervene, citing that several religions, including Buddhism, Sikhism, Hinduism, and Christianity, discourage alcohol consumption.
He warned that drinking could affect health and lead to drunk driving accidents.
Chong Zhemin (PH-Kampar) and Jimmy Puah Wee Tse (PH-Tebrau) immediately challenged Mohd Misbahul’s statements.
"That’s not correct, Parit Buntar. You are not Christian, don’t speak on matters you don’t know," Jimmy Puah told him.
Chong invoked parliamentary rules, saying Mohd Misbahul’s remarks were misleading. "Rule 36 (12).
Any member who makes statements that mislead the House is deemed to disrespect the chamber and may be referred to the Rights and Privileges Committee. Parit Buntar said all religions forbid alcohol — that is not true. In Christianity, there is no prohibition on drinking," he said.
Mohd Misbahul denied using the word “forbidden” in his remarks. The exchange escalated when Chong asked him to retract his comments and sit down, saying, "Parit Buntar already drunk, sit down, already drunk?"
Mohd Misbahul responded angrily, calling Chong “mad”. "You are mad," he retorted.
Chong attempted to clarify his use of the word “drunk,” explaining that it could refer to seasickness or motion sickness. "I want to clarify about drunk. There are many types of drunk. You can get drunk at sea, even sitting in a car," he said.
Deputy Speaker Syahredzan Johan intervened, requesting both MPs to retract their words. Mohd Misbahul refused to withdraw his statements regarding alcohol consumption and was subsequently instructed to leave the chamber temporarily. - October 28, 2025
