A fresh political firestorm is brewing after PAS demanded Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim fire Tourism Minister Tiong King Sing, following viral photos showing wine and beer glasses being served at a Tourism Malaysia dinner.
The event, part of the Global Travel Meet, was listed on Tourism Malaysia’s official website — and that’s exactly why PAS isn’t buying Tiong’s excuse that it was a “private industry dinner.”
“When an event is listed under an official government programme, the government bears full responsibility,” said PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari, blasting Tiong’s defence as “unacceptable.”
Photos of Tiong and guests holding alcohol sparked outrage online, with Masjid Tanah MP Mas Ermieyati Samsudin and several UMNO and PAS leaders accusing him of disrespecting Muslim sensitivities.
But Tiong hit back, saying the dinner wasn’t government-funded — just a platform “borrowed” from private tourism players. “Tourism Malaysia only handled the cultural shows and Visit Malaysia 2026 launch,” he said, adding that non-alcoholic drinks were provided too.
Still, PAS isn’t letting it slide. Ahmad Fadhli slammed Tiong for repeatedly failing to respect Islam’s position as Malaysia’s official religion. “This isn’t the first time he’s shown insensitivity. The Prime Minister must act decisively to restore public trust and uphold Islam’s honour,” he said.
Backing PAS’s call, the UMNO Ulama Council also weighed in, warning that even privately sponsored alcohol has no place at government-linked events. “Ministers must reject alcohol sponsorships outright — it sets a dangerous example for younger generations,” said adviser Khairuddin Aman Razali.
The issue has since gone viral, with UMNO Youth chief Dr Akmal Salleh and PAS Ulama chief Ahmad Yahaya joining the chorus of criticism — intensifying pressure on the unity government as public backlash mounts.
Despite the uproar, Tiong remains defiant — insisting the event was not a government function and accusing his critics of playing politics over a misunderstanding.
