PM gives stern reminder to Tiong over alcohol debacle

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has given a stern reminder to Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing over an industry dinner that the latter attended, which served alcohol.

Anwar also indicated that he did not accept Tiong's explanation that the gala dinner was not a "government event".

"The government's policy is firm, alcohol can't be served at official government events.

"(Tiong's) explanation is that (the alcohol was served) after the official event ended, but at the same venue and event.

"I have given a stern reminder to the minister and ministry not to repeat this mistake. Despite the explanation that the (official) event was over, it was not justifiable," he told reporters at Istana Negara today, according to a video published by Bernama.

He added that he is reminding the cabinet and all government machinery not to be careless in this matter.

The event in question was a dinner held in conjunction with Tourism Malaysia’s Global Travel Meet.

‘Industry players took over govt event’

Photos from the event showed Tiong and other guests holding wine and beer glasses, which have been met with widespread backlash, including calls for Tiong’s resignation.

Responding to critics, Tiong denied that alcoholic beverages were served at a government-hosted dinner.

The tourism minister later clarified that the government was originally supposed to host the event. However, following the success of the Global Travel Meet, private companies then took over the hosting and funding.

Tiong refused to comment further on the event when met by reporters at an event in Sunway today.

"I have answered, enough," he said.

MP SPEAKS | Don't let alcohol issue drown tourism business success

Tourism groups back Tiong, urge end to 'misleading' remarks on gala dinner

Amanah, PKR rap Tiong as brickbats continue to rain over alcohol

PAS tells Anwar to sack Tiong, says explanation unreasonable