LUNDU: Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi has stressed that the ‘Timah’ whiskey issue lies on the label name and not the product itself.
Nanta said the local authority in Kelantan, with Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) as the state government, had issued permit to sell liquor to those who were eligible only.
“Hence, the current issue revolves on the label name. It is said that the name (Timah whiskey) is confusing and is sensitive to a particular religion and that is what is being debated.
“As of now, we have yet to decide on anything because we need to listen (to the parties involved in the matter) first,” he explained.
He said this during a press conference after handing over the AKHP 2021 award to BS Supermarket in Lundu on Sunday (Oct 31).
Nanta noted that discussion was not only made when names related to Islam came up but also when issues related other races and religion cropped up.
“In line with that, final decisions are made during the Cabinet meeting. Any words or labels which will induce confusion or sensitivity among the rakyat will not be allowed as we strive to maintain our harmony,” he added.
On a similar matter, he called on the media to not sensationalise issues that will spark disharmony among the people.
“I request the media to be responsible and to not simply sensationalise issues. Let us be together in maintaining the harmony in the country with our multicultural, multi religion, and multi ethnicity,” he said.
He disclosed that his ministry together with other relevant ministries had held discussions with Winepak Corporation Sdn Bhd, producer of the Timah whiskey.
“From the meeting, the company is given time until next week to come up with a proposal to solve the issue at hand,” he said.
