Is Ipoh City Council banning alcohol sales in Muslim-majority areas?

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Ipoh City Council Not Banning Alcohol Sales in Muslim-Majority Areas

The Ipoh City Council has not approved a proposal to ban alcohol sales in Muslim-majority residential areas. This suggestion originated from certain groups and was raised by some Muslim councillors during an Islamic subgroup meeting, but it did not gain unanimous support within the council. City council members have indicated that such restrictions could impede commercial activities and that the local government should not function as a moral police.
Proposal Raised in Subgroup Meeting

A proposal to prohibit alcohol sales in residential areas predominantly populated by Muslims was put forward by some Muslim councillors during a meeting of an Islamic subgroup. However, this suggestion did not receive consensus and has not been formally approved by the Ipoh City Council. Council member Wong Kar Keat clarified that the local government's role should not extend to moral policing, suggesting that enforcement of religious teachings falls under the purview of religious authorities rather than municipal bodies.
Current Policy Limited to Manjoi

Currently, restrictions on alcohol sales in Muslim-majority areas are enforced only in Manjoi. Ipoh Mayor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin had recently mentioned that the council was considering broadening these restrictions to encompass more such areas. However, state executive councillor for housing and local government Sandrea Ng clarified that the mayor's remarks were a response to public concerns and suggestions, and no new policy has been introduced or discussed at the state executive council level.
Concerns Over Hindering Commerce and Inclusive Principles

Concerns have been raised that implementing a widespread ban on alcohol sales could negatively impact commerce. Council members have stressed that decisions regarding alcohol sales should ideally be left to businesses, without undue regulation by local authorities. Furthermore, it has been noted that any policy decisions by the city council must align with the inclusive principles of the Madani government, which advocates for a balanced approach that respects diverse community needs and economic activities.

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Is Ipoh City Council banning alcohol sales in Muslim-majority areas?

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