KPKT denies serving alcohol, says viral drink was just a fizzy mocktail

SHAH ALAM – The Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) has denied claims that alcohol was served at its Minister’s Excellence Awards on Nov 8, stating that the drink, which went viral online was actually a simple fizzy mocktail.

According to the ministry, the much-talked-about cucumber apple slider drink was a carbonated soft drink, not alcohol, despite people online assuming otherwise because it was served in stemmed glasses.

“The ‘cucumber apple slider’ served to guests is a carbonated soft drink and contains no alcohol. Its presentation in stemmed glasses is in line with standard catering practices typically used for formal events,” the ministry said.

The ministry added that the rumours were unnecessary and had caused damage to its image and to those who attended the event.

To address the issue, the ministry has already lodged a report with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to investigate where the claims started.

“The public is advised to refer to the ministry first and not make any speculation without verification.

“The ministry remains committed to ensuring that all events comply with guidelines, uphold integrity and respect community sensitivities,” it added.

This incident comes not long after Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing was criticised when alcohol was served at the Tourism Malaysia Global Travel Meet event last month.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim later reprimanded him, saying he did not accept Tiong’s explanation that the gala dinner was not a government event.

Tiong eventually admitted he should have clarified earlier that the programme was organised by the private sector.