Perak Bans Alcohol During Thaipusam 2025 – Offenders Face Immediate Arrest!

Source: The Rakyat Post

For the first time in history, the Perak state government has imposed an alcohol ban during the Thaipusam celebrations. From February 10 to 12, 2025, the sale and consumption of alcoholic drinks will be strictly prohibited at all Thaipusam procession venues.

According to A. Sivanesan, chairman of the State Human Resources, Health, Indian Community Affairs, and National Integration Committee, the decision was made following complaints about disruptive incidents during previous celebrations.

Strict Action Against Violators

Sivanesan warned that anyone caught violating the ban could face immediate arrest under the Penal Code for disturbing public peace and order.

🗣 “Previously, complaints about alcohol consumption during processions—especially at night—were not strictly addressed. This time, if it happens again, the police will not compromise. Offenders will be arrested immediately and taken to court.”

He made these remarks at a press conference held at Bangunan Perak Darul Ridzuan during the state-level Thaipusam 2025 Coordination Meeting.

First Alcohol Ban During Thaipusam

While drinking alcohol is not illegal in Malaysia, Sivanesan emphasized that intoxicated individuals causing disturbances could still be charged under existing laws.

🗣 “We have deployed Criminal Investigation Department (CID) officers to monitor the situation.”

This is the first-ever alcohol ban imposed during Thaipusam in Perak, marking a historic shift in festival regulations.

Traffic Disruptions Expected – Roads to Be Partially Blocked

With over 350,000 devotees and tourists expected to attend Thaipusam in Ipoh, several major roads will face temporary closures, including:

🚧 Jalan Sungai Pari

🚧 Jalan Tun Perak

🚧 Jalan Lahat

🚧 Jalan Sultan Yusoff

🚧 Jalan Sultan Idris

🚧 Jalan Raja Musa Aziz

The main Thaipusam celebrations will be held at:

🏛 Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, Jalan Sungai Pari, Buntong

🏛 Sri Subramaniar Temple, Gunung Cheroh, Jalan Raja Musa Aziz

Controversy Over Jakim’s Proposed Guidelines

On a separate issue, Sivanesan briefly addressed the Jakim-proposed guidelines restricting Muslim participation in non-Muslim gatherings, stating that the matter is still open for discussion.

💬 “Even some MPs disagree. They attend these events for official duties, not rituals. This should be discussed with the National Unity Ministry first.”

With Perak’s new alcohol ban and strict festival monitoring, will other states follow suit in regulating Thaipusam celebrations?