KUCHING: Foreign tourists visit Malaysia for holidays and do not care whether Malaysians drink alcohol or not, said Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak.

“Tourists come here for sightseeing, shopping, experiencing local culture, and relaxation.

“They are not concerned about whether Malaysians drink or whether they are allowed to,” he said in an interview with Sin Chew Daily.

Abdul Karim added that the controversy over alcoholic beverages served at a dinner attended by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing should not be blown out of proportion, as it could harm the tourism industry.

He said the issue had been magnified by some politicians.

“If an event is officially organized and the organizers are aware that alcohol shouldn’t be served at official functions, then they simply shouldn’t serve it at the event itself.

“As an alternative, they could set up a separate counter outside the venue where guests who wish to drink can purchase and consume alcohol before or after the event.”

When asked whether this incident might negatively impact domestic tourism, Abdul Karim stressed that as long as the issue is handled rationally, it will not affect the tourism sector.

“We must clearly distinguish tourism activities, official ceremonies and private gatherings to avoid unnecessary disputes.

“The focus of tourism should be on attracting visitors—not creating divisions over minor details like this,” he said.