Carlsberg kept brewing when I was MB, says Azmin

 

STATE POLLS | In an attempt to assuage the concerns of non-Muslim voters, Selangor Perikatan Nasional chief Azmin Ali said Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Bhd continued operating when he was menteri besar.

He pointed out there were three PAS members in his administration and no liquor stores were shuttered.

“Conversely, there is still the largest brewery in Shah Alam, the Carlsberg Brewery, which hasn't been affected,” he told the Chinese language newspaper Oriental Daily.

However, Azmin, who was menteri besar from 2015 to 2018, was heading a PKR-led government at the time.

The Bersatu supreme council member is now part of a coalition comprising PAS and his opponents have claimed that the rights of non-Muslims could be affected if PN comes into power.

Responding to such allegations, Azmin clarified that PN candidates are contesting under the coalition’s banner, not as PAS or Bersatu.

“Our focus is on the economy, job opportunities for young people, business prospects, assisting small traders, and small and medium-sized enterprises.

"We also discuss environmental matters, climate change, and empowering women. These are our commitments and agenda. We are not focusing on trivial or sensitive issues," he added.

Non-Muslim practices safeguarded

Stressing the importance of accurate information, Azmin, who is contesting the Hulu Kelang seat, pointed out that non-Muslims are able to work and live in peace in Kelantan, which has been under PAS for decades.

"Non-Muslims in Kelantan are allowed to consume alcohol, as it is permitted by their religion. If anyone has visited Kelantan, they should know that there is not only the largest Buddha statue in the country but also in all of Southeast Asia, and it hasn't been disturbed," he added.

Recalling how a Hindu temple was demolished under BN’s rule in Selangor, Azmin said there were no such incidents when he was the menteri besar with exco members from PAS.

"Based on records, PN, especially PAS and myself, have never demolished or damaged any places of worship because we view them as sacred to Hindus, Christians, and Buddhists, whereas for Muslims, the sacred places are mosques and prayer rooms," he added.

Azmin said during his tenure as menteri besar, before a shrine or temple is relocated, discussions would be held with the Malaysian Hindu Sangam and the state government would provide appropriate land for relocation.

‘Green Wave’ concoction

Singling out DAP, the Bersatu leader said it should stop the culture of threats and intimidation in politics because it does not contribute to the nation’s progress.

Azmin also dismissed the “Green Wave” as political propaganda perpetuated by DAP, especially its chairperson Lim Guan Eng and his father, Kit Siang.

"There is no 'Green Wave'. Their claims are meant to scare the Chinese and non-Malays, making them fearful of PN.

“DAP should be more responsible and unite the Malaysians rather than intimidate them. This culture of threats and intimidation is detrimental to a multiethnic and multireligious nation," he added.

The term “Green Wave” associated with PAS’ official colour came about after PN made significant gains in the last general election. - Mkini