A senior lawyer told FMT that about 400 members voted on the resolution, which was the last of 14 motions debated at the AGM.
Today’s meeting started on schedule as the quorum of 500 was obtained.
“Nearly 15 members spoke on the resolution, but the proposal was overwhelmingly rejected,” the lawyer said.
HR Dipendra, who voted against the motion, said the Malaysian Bar and its state counterparts must remain secular.
On Monday, FMT reported that the proposed motion states alcohol consumption has well-documented health risks, including liver disease, addiction and adverse mental health effects.
It said the presence of alcohol at events organised by the Malaysian Bar and state Bar committees may contribute to unprofessional behaviour and could pose potential liabilities for the organisation.
The motion said the presence of alcohol at such events does not align with the organisation’s commitment to promoting a healthy and supportive atmosphere for its members.
It also said the exclusion of alcohol may reduce the discomfort and awkwardness experienced by certain segments of members, especially Muslim lawyers.
This is not the first time such a proposal has been brought forward.
In 2017, a similar motion was tabled, citing the multi-ethnic and multi-religious composition of the legal fraternity and the fact that many religions prohibit alcohol consumption.
That motion was also defeated by a thumping majority. - FMT
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.