The ban, which was announced in November last year and was supposed to begin tomorrow, prohibits the sale of liquor but permits the sale of beer between certain hours so long as it is separated from other beverages.

In a statement today, however, DBKL said these shops can continue to sell liquor until the end of October.

“The suspension (of the ban) is intended for a study to be conducted related to the control of liquor sales in Kuala Lumpur.

“The availability and accessibility of liquor has been the subject of complaints and protests, as it is detrimental to public safety.”

After it was announced last year, the ban came under fire from opposition lawmakers and civil society alike, who said it violated the freedom of non-Muslims to practice their cultures.