Selangor executive council member Ean Yong Hian Wah has advised organisers of controversial beer festival Oktoberfest to apply for permits from the local authorities.

 

He said the approval depended on whether the permit conditions were met. 

 

"The state government has never given approval to any party in organising such a programme," Ean Yong said.

The festival, sponsored by beer maker Carlsberg, has courted controversy following opposition from PAS and Umno leaders.

It kicked off in Subang, Selangor, on Sept 24 while the grand finale will be held at the parking lot of the One Utama shopping mall in Petaling Jaya this weekend.

Ean Yong ( left ), who is in charge of local government, new village development and legalising of unregistered factories, said among the criteria that has to be met by organisers are:

  • Affixing of signages stating "Malay/Islam patrons not allowed" and preventive measures to ensure this is adhered to;

 

  • Ensuring there are no underaged patrons in the venue;

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  • Prior approval for alcohol licence must be obtained from the Customs Department;

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  • Permission from police department (PDRM) where needed; and

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  • The event must be held in an enclosed location that prioritises safety and other concerns.

    • Ean Yong, who is also the Seri Kembangan assemblyperson, added that the state government has enough rules and laws to deal with the issue at hand.

    As such, he is upset with "certain quarters" who have tried to politicise the Oktoberfest issue.

    "The state government is disappointed that some irresponsible quarters have tried to politicise this issue and cause confusion among the people."

    PAS MPs send memo to MBPJ

    Meanwhile, several PAS MPs today sent a memorandum to Petaling Jaya Mayor Alinah Ahmad to express support for the state government’s move not to approve the Oktoberfest festival.

    They include Temerloh MP Nasruddin Hasan, Kuala Nerus MP Dr Khairudin Aman, Pasir Mas MP Nik Mohamad Abduh Nik Aziz, Pasir Putih MP Dr Nik Mazian and Bachok MP Marzuk Saari.

    Among the reasons cited for action to be taken against the Oktoberfest organisers and for approval to be denied was that the event is to be held without any permit and in an open space, at the One Utama shopping mall car park.

    Meanwhile, the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (Jais) has strictly cautioned that Islam bans its followers from consuming alcohol or any intoxicating beverage.

    Anyone caught consuming alcohol at the festival, Jais said, can be arrested and charged under Section 18 (1) & 18 (2) of the Syariah Crime Enactment (Selangor) 1995.

    Jais also called on the Oktoberfest organisers to be more sensitive towards the cultures and religions in the country.

    It also called on the local authorities to take the necessary action against anyone who those who breach the law.

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