Kuching: DAPSY Kuching Secretary Lesley Chong has criticised Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr. Sim Kui Hian for what she described as “hypocrisy and selective commentary” over the ongoing debate surrounding the alcohol issue.
In a statement, Chong responded to Dr. Sim’s recent remark that “in Sarawak, if you want to drink, then drink,” which she said would normally be welcomed by the people of Sarawak.
However, she questioned why Dr. Sim had remained silent during the “Santubong Beer Incident,” when some quarters claimed that naming a beer after Santubong was offensive to Muslims.
“At that time, did the Deputy Premier ever think about speaking up for Sarawak’s multicultural and inclusive traditions like he is doing now?” she asked. “Did he stand up to defend Sarawakians’ way of life? Or did he choose to remain silent because the controversy was stirred by his political allies?”
Chong said it was ironic that Dr. Sim had chosen to comment on the recent controversy involving alcoholic beverages at a Ministry of Tourism dinner in Peninsular Malaysia, while staying quiet on similar issues at home.
“This clearly shows that he does not genuinely believe that ‘alcohol is not a sensitive issue,’ but rather, he only speaks up when it is politically safe to do so,” she said. “Why make a statement when it is a federal issue, but not make a sound when it is an issue in Sarawak, even though you are the Sarawak Deputy Premier?”
Chong emphasised that Sarawak society has long been known for its openness and inclusivity, adding that alcoholic beverages have always been part of social and festive gatherings without controversy.
The real problem, she said, lies with politicians who “adopt different stances depending on context.”
“Sarawak’s multicultural spirit is not a slogan to be used as a political weapon,” she said. “It is a way of life. Sarawakians know how to coexist in mutual respect and tolerance. We do not need anyone to define what is sensitive and what is not.”
Chong urged leaders, particularly those from Sarawak, to be consistent and sincere in defending Sarawakian values.
“Sarawak does not need superficial statements from politicians who do not walk the talk,” she said. “We need sincerity, consistency, and the courage to speak the truth.”
