Tourism Ministry pledges to learn from gala dinner alcohol controversy

PETALING JAYA: The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry has pledged to learn from the recent gala dinner controversy and ensure that such incidents do not happen again.

The ministry said it took full responsibility for the confusion and misunderstanding that had caused unease amongst the public following the viral event.

“The Ministry takes this as a lesson and will make sure that similar incidents do not happen again.

“The ministry will also ensure that all programmes under its supervision comply with established guidelines and ethical standards,” it said in a statement on Tuesday (Oct 7).

The ministry also expressed regret over any inconvenience caused and thanked Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his advice, constructive feedback and continued support in strengthening the country’s tourism, arts and culture industry.

“The Ministry will continue to improve communication and implement ongoing improvements in carrying out its responsibilities to the people and the nation,” it added.

The Prime Minister issued a stern warning to the ministry regarding the serving of alcohol at an official government event, stating it must never be repeated.

Anwar said the ministry’s explanation, that alcohol was served only after the official programme had concluded, was unacceptable.

The government maintains a firm policy against serving alcohol at official functions without exception.

Earlier, Masjid Tanah MP Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin questioned the serving of alcohol at the dinner, stating that it was inappropriate for an event involving a government agency.

However, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing clarified that Tourism Malaysia was not responsible for serving alcohol at the gala dinner, which was part of the Global Travel Meet.

He said the catering was handled by the private sector and was not part of Tourism Malaysia’s official programme.

The agency’s role was limited to launching the Visit Malaysia 2026 events calendar at the same venue.

The co-hosts of the Global Travel Meet Gala Dinner, the Malaysian Indian Travel & Tours Association (Mitta), the Malaysian Inbound Chinese Association (MICA) and the Malaysia My 2nd Home Consultants Association (MM2HCA), expressed regret to Tiong and Tourism Malaysia over the incident.