Gerakan Youth has criticised the Malacca government's plans to implement a ban on alcohol sale by 7-Eleven outlets located in neighbourhoods where 90 percent of the population are Muslim.

The movement's secretary-general William Chang said the state government's new policy was akin to political interference in commerce and should reconsider the ban.

Chang said the state government should consider the fact that convenience stores also cater to non-Muslim residents and tourists.

"Even if the store is located in a Muslim-majority area, there will be non-Muslim customers to cater as well. Isn't the ban denying the rights of non-Muslims?" asked Chang.

He also pondered aloud on whether Malacca would also impose bans on other non-halal products, such as pork products, in the future in Muslim-majority areas.

Yesterday, China Press reported Malacca Chief Minister Idris Harun's announcement that the state executive council had decided to implement the ban.

The first step will see all local councils establishing the demographics of the residents in areas where the 76 outlets are located.

Idris is quoted as saying that in non-Muslim areas, 7-Eleven will be allowed to sell alcohol. He added that 7-Eleven has agreed to the policy.

In addition, the state government is also urging the 7-Eleven chain to review its alcohol classification scheme, as beverages containing less than eight percent of alcohol, such as beer, are not considered alcoholic drinks.

"The state government suggests that all drinks containing alcohol, which is prohibited under Islam, to be deemed as alcoholic drinks," said Idris, adding that 7-Eleven should hire more non-Muslim staff to handle such items.