Alif Satar suddenly gets political over Kor Ming's comments on Muslims and alcohol? Says he can't wait to vote
In his posts, Alif appeared visibly disappointed with how the issue was handled, sharing a short but impactful statement that quickly caught attention online.
SHAH ALAM - Singer and actor Alif Satar has joined a growing wave of public criticism following the controversy over the serving of alcohol at a government-linked tourism event, directing his frustration at Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming and Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing through a series of Instagram Stories.
In his posts, Alif appeared visibly disappointed with how the issue was handled, sharing a short but impactful statement that quickly caught attention online.
“Can't wait to go out and vote,” he wrote in an Instagram Story.
He later followed up with another message reflecting his frustration yet urging restraint.
“I feel angry, but we have to be patient. We will use our rights as citizens later,” he wrote.
His comments came shortly after both Nga and Tiong defended their respective roles in the Global Travel Meet 2025 Gala Dinner, where alcohol was served; an incident that has since sparked widespread backlash, including a public reprimand from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Nga: “We did not force Muslims to drink”
On Oct 7, Nga said serving alcohol at an event was a common practice and clarified that no Muslims were compelled to consume it.
He urged the public not to exaggerate the matter, warning that it could damage Malaysia’s global image ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
He said the dinner was part of a privately organised commercial programme in collaboration with the government and attended by Muslims and non-Muslims.
“In events of such global nature, the serving of alcoholic beverages is something commonly practised. However, we have never and will never ask our Muslim friends to be involved in such matters,” he said.
Nga emphasised that Malaysia was a nation built on diversity and mutual respect, adding that the Malaysia Truly Asia concept “is not merely a slogan but a reflection of unity in diversity and interfaith harmony.”
He said the event generated around USD$420 million (RM2 billion) in investments and urged the public to focus on promoting Malaysia’s image as an open and welcoming destination.
“If we continue to blow up small issues like this, it benefits no one. Instead, it will only harm the nation and our tourism sector,” he added.
Tiong: “Tourism Malaysia not responsible”
On Oct 5, Tiong clarified that Tourism Malaysia was not responsible for serving alcohol at the event.
“Tourism Malaysia did not provide food or beverages during the dinner. It was hosted by our partners from the tourism industry,” he said in a statement.
He said Tourism Malaysia’s involvement was limited to launching the Visit Malaysia 2026 events calendar, while the catering was handled entirely by the private sector.
Tiong stressed that the Global Travel Meet had generated an estimated RM420 million in economic impact and reiterated the ministry’s commitment to respecting local customs and sensitivities.
However, when pressed by reporters after officiating the Asean Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) 2025 High-Level Forum on Oct 7, Tiong refused to comment further on the issue.
“I have already answered. That is enough,” Tiong said while reportedly walking and ignoring reporters.
Razali Idris: “It showed great disrespect towards Muslim guests”
Adding to the controversy, Terengganu State Executive Councillor for Tourism, Culture, Environment and Climate Change Datuk Razali Idris confirmed that he had attended the event and left early after feeling uncomfortable with the atmosphere.
“There was no sense of decorum or morality. It did not reflect the aspirations of the Rukun Negara. The act of serving alcohol showed great disrespect towards Muslim guests.
“The hotel staff were freely serving alcoholic beverages at the request of attending guests,” he said.
Razali also claimed that school students were performing on stage while alcohol was being served, calling it “a very serious matter.”
He questioned whether the event’s economic benefits justified what he viewed as a breach of moral standards.
“Even if the Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister wants to perform ‘kung fu moves’ to deflect blame by claiming that the private sector organised it, then what is the purpose of having event guidelines and protocols?,” he said.
Anwar: “This mistake must not be repeated”
On Oct 7, Anwar issued a stern warning to Tiong and the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, stressing that the serving of alcohol at any official event was “entirely inappropriate.”
“The ministry explained that the alcohol was served after the official event ended. But it was still within the same venue and part of the same event. We have issued a stern warning to the minister and the ministry. This mistake must not be repeated.
“I want to remind all Cabinet members and the entire government machinery that there is no room for negligence on this issue,” he said.
The backlash surrounding the event has now extended beyond political circles, with figures like Alif Satar echoing the public’s growing frustration.
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