The DPM reportedly ordered a blanket ban on beer festivals, but now he says it is “very technical” and that questions pertaining to the issue should be directed to the IGP.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was asked for comments yesterday over the sudden move by the authorities this year to refuse beer festivals to be held in the Klang Valley, beginning with the ‘Better Beer Festival’.
The event which has been happening for several years was opposed by PAS, leading to its abrupt cancellation by the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).
Denying that the move was motivated by pressure from PAS, DBKL cited security issues instead.
Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Mohamad Fuzi Harun then later said the event might be “sabotaged” by militants.
On Saturday, national newswire Bernama reported that the police will also not approve a permit for a German food and beverage party scheduled to be held at a supermarket in Klang on Oct 12 and 13.
North Klang district police chief ACP Mazelan Paijan reportedly said this was because the event, ‘Centro German F&B Party’, would serve alcoholic beverages to guests.
“The police will not allow (the event to be organised) just like the recent order by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi who wanted the police to ensure there will be no beer fest.
“So far, the police have not received any application letter from the organiser…if there are parties claiming that the event was given the go-ahead, then the (approval) letter should be a fake one,” Mazelan was quoted as saying.
On Friday, Selangor DAP vice-chairman Datuk Teng Chang Khim said the state government had handed over the matter to local authorities to make a decision based on existing laws and regulations.
Prior to this, the Klang Municipal Council had approved the event but stated that the organiser needed to adhere to the terms and conditions, including barring Muslims from entering the party area as well as obtaining a permit from the authorities.
In response to the media’s question on why now a blanket ban on beer fests, Zahid said, “This is a very technical and operational question. I think you should address the question to my IGP.”
Earlier reports:
Sept 19, “Sensitive Issue” of Axing Beer Festival
Sept 18, No-Go for Beer Festival