KUANTAN – Pahang Mufti Datuk Dr Asmadi Mohamed Naim has issued a clear warning against serving alcohol at government events, calling the practice improper and unacceptable under Islamic law.
He said that if reports of alcohol being served at a government event were true, it would be deeply disappointing as the act went against Islamic teachings and the Islam Madani concept advocated by the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“In my view, serving alcohol at an official government event is improper and unacceptable, regardless of whether it is funded by government allocations or sponsored by industry players,” he said in a statement on Monday.
He described that such events not only caused discomfort among the public but also placed Muslim civil servants in difficult positions, as they might be required to manage prohibited drinks.
Asmadi said that even if the event involved non-Muslim guests or international participants, the government must remain mindful of religious sensitivities and uphold its image as an administration in a Muslim-majority nation.
He warned that actions like this could lead to public disappointment and provoke unnecessary polemics.
Asmadi also added that Muslims should distance themselves from attending such functions unless absolutely necessary.
"O believers! Intoxicants, gambling, idols and drawing lots for decisions are all evil of Satan’s handiwork. So shun them so you may be successful,” he said, citing Surah Al-Maidah, verse 90.
He also reminded that adopting foreign cultural practices should not be used as a justification for hosting such events.
Asmadi said that even when attending meetings or conferences abroad where alcohol is served, Muslim leaders are bound by Islamic principles and should firmly decline such offerings to preserve their dignity and faith.
He urged all parties to adhere to government event guidelines that prohibited the serving of alcohol to ensure all official functions aligned with Islamic values, manners, and principles.
“Malaysia, as a multiracial nation, does not need to compromise Islamic values when hosting official government events.
"However, while the rights of non-Muslims to consume alcohol privately should be respected, such drinks should not be served at government events,” he said.