Alcohol in Malaysia refers to the consumption, industry and laws of alcohol in the Southeast Asian country of Malaysia. Although Malaysia is a Muslim-majority country, the country permits the selling of alcohol to non-Muslims. There are no nationwide alcohol bans being enforced in the country, with the exception of Kelantan and Terengganu which is only for Muslims.[1] The Islamic party respects the rights of non-Muslims and non-Muslim establishments like Chinese restaurants and grocery shops are excluded from such bans.[2] The federal territory of Kuala Lumpur has the highest alcohol consumption in the country, followed by the states of Sarawak in second place and Sabah in third place.[3]
Based on a report released by International Organisation of Good Templars in 2016, Malaysia has the third highest tax on alcohol worldwide at 15%, behind Norway and Singapore which are predicted to keep increasing.[4] The country has an annual spending of RM2 billion on alcoholic drinks.[4] Prior to the Trans-Pacific Partnership, Malaysia together with Vietnam plans to drop import tariffs on beer, whisky, and other alcoholic drinks.[5]
- ^ "Liquor Control Bill: How other countries and cities in Asia tackle drinking". The Straits Times. 22 January 2015. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
- ^ Murad, Dina (25 November 2014). "Husam: Right of non-Muslims to consume alcohol, even in Kelantan". The Star. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
- ^ "Sabah is 3rd highest in alcohol consumption". The Star. 11 May 2013. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
- ^ a b "Malaysia: Alcohol Tax Set To Increase". International Organisation of Good Templars. 3 March 2016. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
- ^ "Malaysia, Vietnam to drop import duties on beer, liquor". Nikkei Asian Review. 20 October 2015. Retrieved 26 October 2016.