Jakim to consider proposals to sell alcoholic drinks via vending machines

KUALA LUMPUR: The Islamic Development Department (Jakim) will look into suggestions for convenience stores to use vending machines to sell alcoholic drinks so that Muslim staff do not have to touch these items.

Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs) Zulkifli Hasan said Putrajaya welcomes proposals to address issues about Muslims handing alcoholic beverages at work.

"We appreciate Pulai MP’s idea and we will try to bring it for discussions at the relevant platform," said Zulkifli during Oral Question Time in Parliament on Thursday (March 7).

Zulkifli was responding to a supplementary question by Suhaizan Kayat (PH-Pulai), who asked about mechanisms to allow staff to work without handling alcoholic drinks.

"There were discussions at the local council to have a guideline so that alcohol sales can be made through vending machines.

"So, they will not have to hand over and sell alcoholic drinks directly," said Suhaizan.

Earlier, Zulkifli said Jakim had implemented several approaches to educate Muslims regarding the dangers and haram status of alcoholic beverages.

Zulkifli also said that Jakim wants to help Muslim workers intending to exit workplaces that sell alcohol.

Among the efforts, said Zulkifli, was providing these workers temporary financial assistance through Zakat centres and state religious councils until they could be employed elsewhere.