The branding, Timah, of an alcoholic beverage has brought an uproar from Islamic religious authorities as they claim it’s a Muslim name and will confuse the people.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Idris Ahmad said, “We do not agree with the principle of using the ‘Timah’ brand name. What does the company mean by that name?”

PAS Syura Ulamak Council member Datuk Mahfodz Mohamad had also mentioned that ‘Timah’ would confuse Muslims and they would believe the product is for them.

However, the controversy is petty and is simply here to divide the people further, at least to the public.

Rizal Kamal, a Muslim, was confused on why the branding has become a major issue among the Muslim community.

He added that the matter is not a problem to him due to being able to differentiate halal and non-halal products.

Ganeshwara Devadoo accused that the religious authorities are gaslighting and undermining the intellect of the people.

He said, “I think those confused are these minority religious preachers and politicians. They are trying to talk on behalf of Malaysians and provoking their ability to read.”

The public want answers on why the issue is brought up now when Timah has been in Malaysia for a while.

Silvia Tan asked, “Why was it (Timah) allowed when the business was registering in the country?”

Timah has defended themselves stating that the name is a reference to the tin mining era during British Malaysia.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE