Brunei nixes 'alcohol zone' for non-Muslim visitors
Brunei minister says alcohol zone for tourists will only cause people to turn to gambling
Brunei: Brunei's religious affairs minister has poured cold water on a lawmaker's suggestion of an "alcohol zone" for tourists in this Muslim country.
The minister, Zain Serudin, said on Monday it could invite God's wrath and cause people to consider starting prostitution and gambling businesses.
Brunei's laws ban the public sale and consumption of alcohol. However, non-Muslim visitors are allowed to bring in limited amounts for private consumption.
Goh King Chin, a member of Brunei's Parliament, sparked debate last week when he suggested authorities could promote tourism by establishing a special area for non-Muslim foreign visitors to purchase and consume alcohol.
