Ahmad Marzuk Shaary's announcement on the possibility of expanding the ban on the sale of liquor at various stores nationwide is seen as meddling into the non-Muslims' affairs, said Patriot president Mohamed Arshad Raji.
He labelled the announcement by Ahmad Marzuk (photo, above), who is deputy minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), as "unnecessary and ridiculous".
"Ahmad Marzuk's latest suggestion is like allowing a part of the camel's body into a tent.
"The public, especially the non-Muslims, are mindful of what had been previously said by leaders of PAS.
"Non-Muslims had been frequently assured they would not be subjected to regulations pertaining to Islam and Islamic affairs, including the hudud issue.
"Non-Muslims were told that they could consume non-halal food so long as their religion permits," he said in a statement.
Arshad said the failure to hold on to the principle will affect the public perception of Ahmad Marzuk and his party.
Yesterday, Ahmad Marzuk, who is also Bachok MP, said that the government has not ruled out the possibility of expanding the ban on liquor sale at sundry and grocery shops, convenience stores, as well as medicine shops nationwide.
This followed Kuala Lumpur City Hall's (DBKL) ruling in disallowing liquor sale in these outlets beginning next October.
Federal Territories Minister Annuar Musa had said that the new guidelines in regards to liquor licence were made after conducting surveys on the guidelines used in other countries prior to the implementation here.
Meanwhile, Patriot invited Ahmad Marzuk and Annuar Musa to instead focus on tackling corruption which is more problematic and plaguing the Malay society.
"We would like to ask the pious Ahmad Shaary to tell us which is more evil – drinking liquor or corruption. Which is more damaging to our society and nation? Which evil attracts the Malays most?
"[...] For Annuar Musa and Ahmad Shaary, please tell us which of the two evils should action be taken first – against banning liquor or to eradicate the scourge of corruption among the Malay society," Arshad said. - Mkini
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