The Malaysian Dewan Rakyat session on Tuesday briefly turned chaotic following a heated exchange between MPs over alcohol-related issues.
The commotion began when Mohd Misbahul Munir Masduki (Perikatan Nasional–Parit Buntar) interjected during Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden’s (Perikatan Nasional–Alor Setar) debate on the 2026 Budget at the policy stage. Mohd Misbahul Munir stated that several religions, including Buddhism, Sikhism, Hinduism, and Christianity, discourage alcohol consumption, which he claimed contributes to health problems.
Chong Zhemin (Pakatan Harapan–Kampar) then stood under Meeting Rule 36(11) to challenge the statement, calling it misleading to the House. “Earlier, the MP from Parit Buntar said all religions forbid drinking alcohol, which is not true,” Chong said.
Mohd Misbahul Munir denied using the term “forbid,” clarifying, “I did not say it is forbidden. I said it is discouraged.”
Deputy Speaker Syahredzan Johan then instructed Mohd Misbahul Munir not to make statements based on other religions’ perspectives.
Tensions escalated when Chong Zhemin quipped, “That’s not a view, that’s a false fact. Or has Parit Buntar had too much to drink?” Mohd Misbahul Munir reacted angrily, calling Zhemin “crazy,” to which he was replied, “You’re the crazy one.”
Following the incident, Deputy Speaker Syahredzan urged both MPs to withdraw their statements to restore order in the House.
