It was reported that these establishments must apply for liquor licences, which cost between RM840 and RM1,320 a year, if they want to continue selling beer from Jan 1, a move critics say will eat into their already small profit margins and infringe on the rights and freedom of non-Muslims.

“Was this decision discussed with the state governments, especially those of Sabah and Sarawak, where many of the residents are non-Muslims?” asked Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng in a statement.

“The enforcement of this rule is only seen as a means to control the lifestyle of non-Muslims.

“Interracial tolerance is something that is important in Malaysia, but every day, we see that non-Muslims have to be more and more tolerant of the government’s sudden decisions.”

Lim also called for more openness and understanding of the cultural differences in Malaysia’s multiracial and multi-religious society.

Among the business associations which have voiced their concern over the move is the Petaling Jaya Coffeeshop Association, which said outlets selling beer were only informed of the requirement for a licence three weeks ago, and that they plan to appeal against it.

The group said the businesses had been taken aback by the sudden requirement, which although is in the Excise Act 1976 and Excise Regulations 1977, is only now being enforced.