PARLIAMENT | A beer festival that is open to the public should not be allowed in Malaysia, according to Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Idris Ahmad.

“Regarding Oktoberfest, all parties should respect the rules and laws of Malaysia that is based on Islam as the religion of the federation,” he said.

“Although non-Muslims are not forbidden from consuming alcohol, the government is of the view that turning alcohol consumption into a festival that...