The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has clarified that Tourism Malaysia did not provide food or beverages at a dinner held during the Global Travel Meet, countering claims that the event caused discomfort to Muslim guests due to the serving of alcoholic beverages.
Minister Tiong King Sing emphasized that the dinner, organized by private sector partners to mark Malaysia’s inaugural global travel event, was not managed by Tourism Malaysia. Instead, the agency used the occasion to launch the Visit Malaysia 2026 events calendar.
“Tourism Malaysia’s role was limited to organizing the Global Travel Meet, which generated an economic impact of RM420 million,” Tiong said in a statement. “The dinner, which has been raised as an issue by YB Masjid Tanah, was an initiative led by industry and private sector players.”
Addressing Cultural Sensitivity Claims
The controversy arose after Bersatu’s Mas Ermieyati Samsudin, the MP for Masjid Tanah, posted a video on Facebook questioning the presence of alcoholic beverages at what she described as a government event. She argued that serving alcohol openly violated Malaysia’s cultural and constitutional norms, particularly given the sensitivities of the country’s Muslim majority. “Official government events must respect the religious sensitivities of Muslims, who form the majority of Malaysians,” she stated.
Tiong firmly rejected these claims, cautioning against misrepresenting the Federal Constitution to mislead the public. He clarified that informal industry-led events, such as the dinner, are distinct from official government functions and do not fall under constitutional scrutiny. “Issuing statements without grasping the facts is misleading and reflects a lack of understanding,” he said.
A Call for Constructive Focus
Tiong expressed concern that amplifying minor issues could erode international confidence in Malaysia’s tourism sector. “If trivial matters like this are blown out of proportion, it risks undermining Malaysia’s global image. Who will want to visit our country?” he asked. He urged Mas Ermieyati to prioritize initiatives that promote economic growth and tourism, particularly in her constituency. “As YB Masjid Tanah, you have a responsibility to champion tourism in your state and the areas you represent,” he added.
The minister defended the Global Travel Meet as a significant achievement, noting its substantial economic contributions. He called for unity in promoting Malaysia’s tourism potential rather than allowing misunderstandings to overshadow the event’s success.
