A senior Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) assemblyman has sharply criticized a PAS MP’s proposal to ban alcoholic beverages on Malaysia Airlines flights, calling it misguided and detrimental to the national carrier’s recovery.
Bawang Assan assemblyman Wong Soon Koh urged Hulu Selangor MP Hasnizan Harun to refrain from injecting religious politics into the airline’s operations, warning that such a move could jeopardize its competitiveness and financial stability.
Economic Risks to Malaysia Airlines
In a strongly worded statement, Wong, a seven-term assemblyman and senior vice-president of the Progressive Democratic Party, emphasized that Malaysia Airlines serves a diverse global clientele with varying cultural and religious backgrounds. He argued that banning alcohol would alienate a significant portion of passengers, particularly business and international travellers who expect premium hospitality.
“Major carriers like Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar Airways all offer full-service hospitality, including alcoholic beverages,” Wong said. “If Malaysia Airlines were to impose such a ban, it would lose its edge, especially among travellers who value world-class service. This could erode its revenue and further strain its already fragile financial position.”
Wong highlighted the airline’s ongoing recovery from the economic fallout of the pandemic, noting that any move to restrict its offerings could hinder its ability to compete in the highly competitive aviation industry.
Accusations of Religious Division
Wong described Hasnizan’s proposal as an embarrassment to both the MP and PAS, accusing him of using religion to sow division among Malaysians. “Non-Muslims respect Islam, but we reject religious manipulation, moral coercion, or interference in our way of life,” he stated. “Faith should foster mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.”
He further criticized the PAS MP for prioritizing personal or political ambitions over national interests, adding, “A leader who disregards the broader implications of such proposals has no place in Malaysia’s future.”
PAS MP’s Rationale
On Monday, Hasnizan argued that serving alcohol on Malaysia Airlines flights contravened Islamic principles and placed Muslim flight attendants in an uncomfortable position. He also claimed that some passengers felt uneasy about the practice. The Hulu Selangor MP clarified that his proposal was not intended to restrict anyone’s rights but to respect the religious sensitivities of Malaysia’s majority Muslim population.
A Call for Pragmatism
Wong urged PAS to move beyond such divisive stances if it aspires to govern the nation. He stressed that Malaysia Airlines, as a national carrier, must cater to a global audience to remain competitive and financially viable. “Hasnizan’s call is not only ignorant but short-sighted,” Wong said, emphasizing the need for policies that unite rather than divide Malaysia’s diverse society.
