NGOs gather outside ministry demanding Tiong's head

A group of NGOs, led by Selangor PAS Youth deputy chief Aubidullah Fahim Ibrahim, gathered outside the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry in Putrajaya to demand Minister Tiong King Sing’s resignation.

“We feel insulted and deeply disappointed with the organisers for serving alcohol openly at the Global Travel Meet 2025 Gala Dinner. This act is clearly a provocation and an insult to Islam,” Aubidullah (above) was quoted as saying by Sinar Harian.

He claimed the event had tarnished Malaysia’s reputation as an Islamic country in the eyes of the world.

“Serving alcohol at an official function goes against the Federal Constitution and existing laws,” he added.

Aubidullah also urged the MACC to conduct a thorough investigation into the organisation, funding, and actual expenditure of the event.

“There must be an investigation and full disclosure so the public knows who was behind what happened. We want the minister to resign - not government directors or agency heads,” he said.

Yesterday, Tiong told Parliament that he had erred by not clarifying that the Global Travel Meet event on Oct 1 was organised by the private sector, not the government.

He said this had contributed to the misunderstanding that led the public to believe Tourism Malaysia had organised the event, which drew criticism over the serving of alcohol.

On the event’s backdrop, which displayed Tourism Malaysia’s logo, Tiong admitted it should have been removed.

“I made a mistake because the logo was still there. My ministry and I regret the confusion that arose from this,” he said.

Previously, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had issued a stern reminder to Tiong over the incident after opposition lawmakers demanded his resignation.

'We drink whenever we want' - alcohol row sparks political spat in Sarawak

Sorry no cure for Petronas CEO's champagne shower, says Amanah

After 'storm in a wine glass', Hati calls for beef ban at official govt events

Motac voices 'regret' after PM's reprimand over alcohol at gala dinner

Sabah DAP leaders slam Cuepacs' alcohol ban for civil servants

MP urges hotel to disclose tourism gala dinner's letter of undertaking

PM gives stern reminder to Tiong over alcohol debacle