Putrajaya warned against mulling policies to limit alcohol sales in Sabah

SANDAKAN – Putrajaya has been warned against even mulling policies to limit alcohol sales in Sabah.

A prominent businessman slammed speculation that the federal government could impose a ban on the sale of liquor at grocers, convenience stores, and Chinese medicinal shops, similar to the policy in Kuala Lumpur.

Thomas Lau told The Vibes that alcohol consumption is a part of local customs, and is a must-have for special occasions and celebrations in Sabah and Sarawak.  

“Whether you like it or not, no one can take that tradition away from us. Drinking liquor, wine, and beer has become part of our tradition for hundreds of years since our forefathers’ era.  

“The Kadazandusun community even has its own traditional alcoholic drinks.”

Lau – a seasoned businessman who owns the popular Waterfront Seafood Restaurant here – said although his restaurant serves alcohol, he still has customers of all races and religions because of the spirit of openness practised in the state.

“Don’t take this multicultural harmony from us. I believe this government is a good government that takes a multilateral approach in many aspects. So, I hope that the government will also be open about alcohol sales in Sabah and Sarawak – and respect our tradition and way of life here.”

He added that alcohol sales are very important for the state’s tourism sector.  

“Tourists, especially those from European countries, come here asking for beer. Can you imagine if we tell them that we cannot serve them beer because it has been banned? We will be the same as other countries – which I will not name – that are conservative and do not rely on tourism to make money.  

“Malaysia is different. We make about RM30 billion-RM40 billion a year from tourism. We cannot afford to lose that kind of money.”  

Lau expressed hope that the federal government would be liberal, and make its decisions concerning alcohol sales after some deep contemplation over the matter.  

“We have to satisfy the needs of the multicultural and multi-religious community in the country, especially in Sabah. Don’t make a decision that would provoke the feelings of other groups in the community, like us in Sabah and Sarawak.”  

On November 1, Kuala Lumpur City Hall started imposing a ban on the sale of liquor at grocers, convenience stores, and Chinese medicinal shops. 

The news had caused locals, business owners, and tourism players to worry over the possibility that a similar restriction would be imposed in Sabah.  

Food hawker James Quek – who works at a beer-serving restaurant in Bandar Prima Mile 4 here – said he would be greatly affected, if sales of alcoholic drinks are restricted.  

“Even though I sell food, among my customers are those who come to the restaurant to drink beer. I would be out of a job, if the government suddenly wants to stop or set time limitations on the sales of beer.”  

Meanwhile, Upko deputy secretary-general Peter Jr Naintin believes Sabah and Sarawak will remain firm, and become the pillars to fight on maintaining their traditions that involve the consumption of alcoholic drinks.  

“Drinking alcoholic drinks is part of the culture and tradition in Sabah and Sarawak, and that must be respected (by the federal government). If Peninsular Malaysia ever restricts the operations of beer factories, then Sabah would welcome these companies to invest and open their factories in the state.” – The Vibes, December 5, 2021