While some local councils in Malaysia have decided to restrict the sales of alcohol within their jurisdiction, there will be no liquor sales restriction in Kuching by the local councils.
The decision was made known publicly by both Kuching South City Council (MBKS) and Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) who openly decided against following their Kuala Lumpur counterpart which just recently restricted the sales of hard drinks within its jurisdiction.
The liquor ban by DBKL
The liquor ban in Kuala Lumpur by the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) is more like a strict restriction than a total ban.
Based on an article by Says, DBKL now limits the sales of beer to sundry shops, convenience stores and Chinese medicine halls from 7am to 9pm.
In addition to that, business owners must prepare a separate display space and sales area for beer and this must be locked or barred after the allowed time for the sales of beer.
For Chinese medicine halls, the sale of mixed or pure liquor for medicinal purposes must obtain the approvals from the Health Ministry.
Liquor sales restriction in Kuching could happen
The sales of alcoholic beverages in West Malaysia has always been an issue, especially since there is a bigger Muslim population across the sea.
While some may see the move as a way to curb drunks and excessive drinking, others look at it from a religious point of view.
In Sarawak, many feel that education and awareness would be more appropriate than trying to restrict freedom to sale and buy such drinks.
That said, it is hoped that if you decide to drink, do it responsibly so that this ‘freedom’ we enjoy in Kuching will not be taken away.
