By Nur Ashikin Louis
LUNDU, Oct 31: The ‘Timah’ whiskey issue is raised due to its name and image label while the alcoholic product itself is a non-issue, says Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
He clarified that in Kelantan where the Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) is the State government, the local authority has issued permit to business premises to sell alcoholic beverages and that is applied strictly to those (companies) who are eligible.
“But the (Timah whiskey) issue now is that some quarters have debated that the product’s name on the label is confusing and sensitive to a particular religion. That is what is being debated and discussed.
“We have yet to reach a decision because we have to listen to all parties (to be fair),” he told reporters at a press conference after his work visit to Lundu and Sematan today.
Nanta took note that the Cabinet has discussed that any products capable of causing ‘public distress’ will not be allowed to be sold.
“However, this does not apply to names which are deemed sensitive to Islam religion alone but also other races and religions.
“Therefore, I’d like to advise everyone including the media to not sensationalise the matter,” he added.
He also mentioned that his ministry together with other relevant ministries had recently held an engagement session with Winepak Corporation Sdn Bhd — the manufacturer of Timah whiskey.
“As a result of the meeting, the company is given time until the middle of next week to come up with a proposal from their side to solve the matter,” he pointed out. — DayakDaily
