I'm firm against alcohol but won't speak on behalf of other ministers - Zulkifli

CORONAVIRUS | Newly minted de facto Islamic Affairs Minister Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri has moved to explain his silence over an initial approval granted for beer factories to operate during the movement control order (MCO) period.

Zulkifli, in a Facebook post, said his stand that alcohol is forbidden in Islam has been consistent and without compromise.

"Drinking alcohol is not only forbidden in Islam but is also described as being dangerous in teachings of Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Sikhs and others.

"What would be the meaning of our lives if we don't subscribe to values taught by religion?," Zulkifli (pictured above) said, also noting that accidents linked to drunk driving have long been a nightmare for many Malaysians.

Following protests by Umno, PAS and Bersatu leaders, Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Ismail Sabri Yaakob yesterday announced that Putrajaya has revoked approvals for brewers Heineken Malaysia Bhd and Carlsberg to continue its operations during the MCO period.

Their outcry was sparked by a letter dated March 31 from the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry to Heineken which agreed the alcoholic beverages producer was a food supply operator and therefore, could operate during the partial lockdown.

The letter went viral on social media and Heineken later confirmed that it was allowed to operate during the MCO with only 10 percent of their essential workers.

However, the minister in the Prime Minister's Department claimed he did not speak up sooner as he did not wish to comment on behalf of other ministries.

"Why didn't I make any comments?" Zulkifli further questioned, pointing out that individuals who knew him as a mufti would know there are times where he would rather wait to better understand an issue before reacting.

"I also feel extremely uncomfortable about answering on behalf of another ministry. My answer could be right or wrong.

"In fact, I also do not know whether my understanding is really based on what is being said by others, or otherwise," he said.

Zulkifli added that he would particularly avoid answering "controversial" questions or with intentions to pit him against others. "If I were to answer in a hurry, I could be damaging the person's reputation."  - Mkini