According to Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, the appropriate authorities should look into rather than ignore claims made by some non-Muslim visitors that they are not permitted to wear shorts or consume beer when visiting Langkawi.

It would be sad, according to the minister of tourism, arts, and culture, if the complaints of travelers who helped support the nation's economy were disregarded, not taken seriously, or even dismissed. He encouraged the appropriate authorities to check into the situation very early to see if such incidents had occurred.

As the minister in charge of tourism, Tiong asserted that he took each tourist complaint seriously and emphasized that Langkawi was a top-tier travel destination.

Tiong stated in a statement yesterday "I will try my best to improve the quality of services in the tourism industry, regardless of whose party is ruling the states."In addition, Tiong stated that he was only bringing up the concerns he had received and had no desire to quarrel with Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor over the subject.

"I don't want to debate the Kedah Mentri Besar regarding the allegations made by tourists that wearing short pants and consuming alcohol are forbidden in Langkawi.

The minister said, "If this issue continues, it will just spark additional controversy and the issue presented won't be resolved.

In Parliament last week, Tiong said that visitors had protested to the ministry about the abuse of power by particular government officials in Langkawi.

He said that some government officials had harassed tourists over dress standards and alcohol consumption by acting like "little Napoleons."

Even if they do not practice Islam, wearing shorts and purchasing alcohol are forbidden. As a result, the minister of state must give a detailed explanation," he stated.

Sanusi refuted Tiong's assertions during a news conference in Kedah on Wednesday by stating that non-Muslims are permitted to wear shorts and consume beer in Langkawi.

He apologized for the allegations, which he called inaccurate, and encouraged the federal minister to take action to put things right.

"I don't know why this topic is brought up. Perhaps some individuals want to "trigger" him.

"I don't want to argue with the minister either. Instead of following others' advice, he needs to come down here personally.

Since the minister is not a Muslim, no one will prevent him from traveling to Langkawi in shorts, continued Sanusi.